The Ike Odoeme Foundation has commissioned a new borehole in Umuakpa, Onicha Uboma, Ihitte-Uboma Local Government Area of Imo State, ending years of water scarcity for residents.
The project, launched on Wednesday, was carried out under the foundation’s CleanWater Initiative, which targets rural areas with limited access to safe and potable water.
Speaking at the inauguration, the foundation’s Executive Director, Mrs Sylvie Marie, said the project reflects the organisation’s commitment to grassroots development.
“This borehole is more than a water source; it is a commitment to health, dignity, progress, and sustainable development,” she said.
“We believe every community deserves access to clean water as a basic human right,” Marie added, urging the community to safeguard the facility for the wellbeing of current and future generations.
Community stakeholders and leaders described the donation as a life-changing intervention that ended decades of hardship.
Chief Uwadoka Aaron, Secretary of the Eze’s Palace, said: “This borehole is the fulfilment of a long-awaited dream. Over the years, we heard many promises from government officials, but none came to fruition until now.
“The Ike Odoeme Foundation has done what many in government could not do for decades”.
Also speaking, Chief Joseph Okoro described the borehole as a symbol of hope and renewed trust.
“Our people can now access clean water without trekking long distances or depending on unsafe streams,” he said.
Chairman of Umuakpa Village, Mr Emeka Egonu, described the day as “historic”, noting that the organisation had etched its name in the hearts of the people.
“They have given us water, and we will not forget this gesture,” he said.
The community’s youth leader, Mr Princewill Ogu, and women leader, Mrs Mercy Ike, also expressed gratitude.
“Water is life. This borehole will ease the suffering of our women who wake up early and walk long distances to fetch water,” Ike stated.
“We pledge to protect and maintain the borehole as a treasured community resource,” Ogu assured the foundation.
