The Gold Fields Ghana Foundation, in collaboration with World Vision Ghana, has handed over a modern water supply system to the people of Damang in the Western Region, providing thousands of residents with reliable access to safe and clean drinking water.
The ceremony attended by traditional leaders, community members, local government officials and representatives of the two organisations, is expected to improve access to potable water for households, schools, health facilities and other public institutions across the community.
The Damang Water Supply System comprises newly drilled and rehabilitated boreholes, a 100-cubic-metre reservoir, a solar-powered pumping system, an extensive distribution network, strategically located standpipes, household connections, and dedicated water supply to schools and healthcare facilities.
Beyond expanding access to clean water, the initiative was designed with a strong emphasis on long-term sustainability. Water and sanitation committees have been established to oversee the system, while local technicians have been trained to undertake routine maintenance. Revenue collection mechanisms and water quality monitoring systems have also been introduced to enable the community to independently manage and maintain the infrastructure.
The Gold Fields Ghana Foundation said the project forms part of its broader commitment to delivering sustainable development initiatives that improve the quality of life in host communities and create lasting social impact beyond its mining operations.
As the implementing partner, World Vision Ghana led the design and execution of the project, with a focus on improving the health and well-being of children and families.
Improved access to safe drinking water is expected to reduce the incidence of waterborne diseases, enhance healthcare delivery, and enable more children particularly girls to spend less time fetching water and more time in school.
Community leaders welcomed the completion of the project and expressed appreciation to the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation and World Vision Ghana for addressing one of Damang’s long-standing development challenges.
They also pledged to safeguard the infrastructure to ensure it continues serving the community for generations.
With the formal handover completed, responsibility for operating and managing the water system has now been transferred to the community through locally established governance structures, while the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation and World Vision Ghana have reaffirmed their commitment to providing support whenever necessary.
