Life for Relief and Development USA (LIFE) Brings Clean Water and Hope to Eastern Ghana

Access to clean water is vital to all human populations. However, like many low-income communities, the rural populations of Eastern Ghana are facing water scarcity and the problems that arise from it. 

The water crisis in Ghana is a complex issue driven by factors such as illegal mining pollution and naturally occurring groundwater quality issues. 

“Galamsey” is a term used by locals to describe illegal gold mining happening in thousands of sites across Ghana. Heavy metals and chemicals such as mercury and cyanide are washed into water bodies, threatening water supplies, ecosystems, and public health. Moreover, the muddying of rivers, or turbidity, makes river water very difficult to treat with existing water infrastructure. 

The existence of high levels of iron and salinity that occur naturally also contributes to the country’s water scarcity. 

The lack of readily accessible clean water creates a cascade of issues for rural Ghanaian villagers, the most concerning being the impacts on their health. If they resort to using water from contaminated sources, they are at high risk of contracting waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. 

Dehydration and malnutrition resulting from poor crop yields are also associated with health problems. 

Continually carrying heavy loads of water takes a physical toll on the women and children who are often tasked with this responsibility, and the mental stress of not having a reliable source of such a vital necessity is demoralizing. 

In line with Life for Relief and Development’s goal of easing suffering and saving lives, the Ghana Water Well Project improved the standard of living for over 1,450 residents and students in Eastern Ghana. The planning and implementation of two water wells—one in the village of Okurase and one at the Christ International School—took place from February 20 to April 11, 2025. 

The newly installed water wells with pumps now offer the beneficiaries a reliable source of clean and safe water. This has led to better hygiene practices, a noticeable decrease in waterborne illnesses, and a great reduction in the time and effort required to fetch water. The significant time savings have allowed villagers to be productive in other areas, and students can now focus more on their studies. 

The well has also brought the community closer together. Local residents have taken responsibility for its upkeep to ensure it remains functional for years to come. To this end, a water committee was formed with members from both the school and the village to manage and maintain the well. This approach builds a sense of ownership and helps ensure the project’s sustainability. 

To the villagers of Okurase and the students of the Christ International School, the installation of the water wells meant more than having access to clean water, it meant a better life and future. 

“The water from the school well has helped more than just the children; it has helped us all. I now bring water home from the school when needed, especially during dry days. My wife uses it for cooking and cleaning, and we don’t worry as much about falling sick. We have seen fewer cases of stomach illness in the village since the well was built. To LIFE and the generous donors: may you be rewarded for this mercy you’ve shown us. You reached us in our time of need, and we are truly grateful.” 

“When I heard that a well would be built at the school, I didn’t believe it at first. We’ve waited many years for clean water. Now, I see my children drink clean water every day at school, and I can fetch some for my home when needed. This project has united our village; we all take turns helping to maintain it because we know how precious it is. Thank you, LIFE, and thank you to all the donors. You’ve changed our daily lives in the best possible way.”