At South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO), we recognize that access to safe water is more than just a necessity – it is a fundamental right. Our dedication to creating healthier communities has driven us to implement sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions in underserved areas. One of our latest initiatives, the Nsukwa WASH Project, is making a lasting impact by improving water access and promoting better hygiene practices in Nsukwa, Delta State.
With support from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, SSDO launched the Nsukwa WASH Project to ensure clean water availability while promoting long-term sanitation and hygiene improvements. This project is designed to empower the community with the resources and knowledge needed to sustain healthy living conditions. A key achievement under this initiative is the installation of a 20,000-litre solar-powered borehole, which now provides residents with a reliable supply of clean water for daily use.
Engaging Traditional Leaders for Sustainable Impact
Community leadership plays a crucial role in driving development and ensuring long-term sustainability. Before initiating the WASH Triggering Session in Nsukwa, SSDO met with the Obi of Nsukwa, along with his council members. This engagement helped raise awareness about the importance of proper sanitation and hygiene while securing their commitment to supporting the project. By involving community leaders from the outset, SSDO is fostering local ownership and ensuring that the initiative remains effective for years to come.
Training Volunteer Hygiene Promoters to Champion Health
Community participation is essential in creating lasting change, which is why SSDO trained 25 Volunteer Hygiene Promoters (VHPs) from Nsukwa. These individuals received hands-on training in hygiene education, disease prevention, and sanitation management. Now equipped with vital knowledge, they are actively teaching residents about safe handwashing, proper waste disposal, and measures to prevent waterborne diseases.
Through their outreach efforts, these VHPs are helping to instill positive hygiene habits, reducing the risk of illnesses, and improving overall community health. By investing in people, SSDO is ensuring that the benefits of this initiative extend far beyond infrastructure.
Strengthening Community WASH Committees for Sustainability
Maintaining access to clean water requires long-term planning and management. To achieve this, SSDO trained 12 members of the Nsukwa Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Committee (WASHCOM), providing them with the skills to oversee and maintain the community’s water system. These committee members are now responsible for borehole maintenance, ensuring water quality, and promoting best sanitation practices.
By empowering community-led WASH committees, SSDO is creating a self-sustaining system that guarantees continued water access and better hygiene for future generations.
Celebrating World Water Day with a Life-Changing Borehole
In commemoration of World Water Day 2025, SSDO, with support from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, constructed a 20,000-litre solar-powered borehole in Nsukwa. Strategically reticulated to key locations within the community, this project has significantly improved access to clean water, benefiting hundreds of residents.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by key government officials, including the Honourable Commissioner for Technical Education, the Honourable Commissioner for Water Resources, and the Leader of the 7th Assembly of Aniocha South LGA. Their presence highlighted the importance of partnerships in addressing critical development challenges and ensuring long-term solutions for water access.
A Future Built on Clean Water and Good Health
The Nsukwa WASH Project is more than just an intervention—it is a movement towards a healthier, more resilient community. Through leadership engagement, hygiene training, and sustainable water infrastructure, SSDO and its partners are paving the way for long-term transformation in Nsukwa.
This milestone would not have been possible without the generous support of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as well as the dedication of the Nsukwa community. As we look ahead, SSDO remains committed to expanding our impact, ensuring that more communities gain access to clean water, improved hygiene, and sustainable sanitation systems.