In a significant stride toward women empowerment, Mayor of Banjul City Council and President of REFELA Africa, Rohey Malick Lowe, inaugurated the Bajana Water Project on Saturday, November 23, 2024. The project, located in Bajana village in the West Coast Region, aims to alleviate the water challenges faced by women gardeners in the area.
The initiative, sponsored by Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Family, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, in collaboration with REFELA Gambia National Chapter, underscores the Mayor’s commitment to empowering women and supporting sustainable development in rural communities.
Speaking at the inauguration, Mayor Lowe emphasized the importance of addressing water scarcity in rural areas. She acknowledged the outdated methods women rely on to fetch water, which have contributed to their struggles over the years. Lowe reiterated REFELA’s belief in empowering women as equal members of society and highlighted the need to ensure access to potable drinking water in every village, both for domestic use and gardening.
“Women have been facing significant challenges due to the lack of water,” Lowe said. “This project not only provides relief but also complements the government’s efforts in sustainable development. We urge the women and villagers to take good care of this initiative to ensure its longevity.” She extended her gratitude to Senator Ishaq Dar for his sponsorship, lauding his dedication to the empowerment of women as part of his Islamic beliefs and humanitarian commitments.
Honorable Amie Colley, National Assembly Member for Foni Berefet, expressed her appreciation for the project, noting its long-term positive impact on the lives of women. “The women in this area have struggled with water challenges for over 15 years. This initiative is not about politics but about national development,” she said, assuring that the borehole will be well-maintained and utilized for both gardening and safe drinking.
Village Development Committee Chairman, Ousman Jatta, also commended the Mayor and donors for their efforts. He appealed for additional support to fence the garden, which would help protect vegetables from roaming animals, further enhancing productivity.
Sukai Sanyang, an executive member of REFELA, reiterated the women’s confidence in Mayor Lowe’s leadership. She highlighted how the project will significantly benefit the women, enabling them to focus on cultivating their gardens without the burden of water scarcity.
Other speakers echoed their gratitude, stressing the project’s vital role in complementing the women’s dedication to their gardens and fostering the village’s development.
Water is important resource for women gardeners, providing the foundation for sustainable agriculture and economic empowerment. The Bajana Water Project exemplifies how targeted initiatives can transform lives, ensuring women have the tools they need to thrive and contribute to national development.
The project marks an important milestone in REFELA’s mission to empower women across The Gambia and demonstrates the impact of collaborative efforts in driving meaningful change.
