Communities across Plateau State have begun to experience relief from persistent water shortages following the commissioning of new borehole projects by the Plateau State Association USA (PSA-USA), a diaspora-based development group focused on improving living conditions in rural areas.
The water intervention, spearheaded by the association’s president, Barth Shepkong, covered Jos Jarawa, Barkin Ladi, Shiwer in Kanke Local Government Area, and Jat Ward in Langtang North. The projects were executed to address long-standing challenges faced by residents who rely on unsafe or distant water sources.
Shepkong explained that the initiative was guided by the urgency of needs identified in the benefiting communities, stressing that access to clean water remains essential for health, education, and economic productivity. He noted that the association aims to complement government efforts through targeted grassroots support.
At the first commissioning in Jos Jarawa, residents turned out in large numbers, showcasing cultural performances to welcome the delegation. Speaking on behalf of the District Head, Village Head Christopher Azi described the borehole as a lifeline, saying the community had struggled for years with inadequate water supply.
Representing a member of the House of Representatives, Ajik Amos praised the intervention, noting that diaspora-driven projects continue to play a critical role in bridging infrastructure gaps and supporting rural development.
In Barkin Ladi, residents of Bet community highlighted the project’s expected impact on health, particularly in reducing water-borne illnesses linked to contaminated sources. Similar sentiments were echoed in Jat Ward, Langtang North, where women and children said the borehole would ease the burden of trekking long distances to fetch water.
Community leaders, including Dirya Sheni, commended the association for the initiative and appealed for sustained collaboration to attract additional development projects to the area.
While handing over the facilities, Shepkong urged residents to take responsibility for maintenance, emphasizing that community ownership would ensure the long-term sustainability of the boreholes.
The projects are expected to expand access to safe drinking water, improve hygiene standards, and enhance the overall well-being of residents in the benefiting communities.
