By Sahr Eric George
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – In a landmark move aimed at enhancing water quality and regulatory oversight, the Sierra Leone Water Union has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Electricity Water Resources Commission (EWRC). The signing ceremony took place before the Parliamentary Committee on Water Resources and Sanitation at the Administrative Building in parliament, Tower Hill, Freetown.
The MOU comes after a prolonged dispute between the Water Union and EWRC, which oversees compliance and regulatory frameworks for water companies. Honourable Musa Lahai, Chairman of the committee, emphasized the importance of resolving the conflict to address concerns raised by Sierra Leoneans regarding the quality of sachet water produced by some companies.
“I am pleased that this issue has been resolved, bringing all parties together,” stated Hon. Lahai. He highlighted that the MOU would facilitate better understanding between EWRC, the committee, and the Water Union, enabling more effective oversight of registered and licensed companies to ensure water quality and safety for citizens.
The chairman affirmed the committee’s commitment to robust oversight and expressed plans for training water companies to understand the MOU and EWRC’s role, emphasizing the importance of monitoring water supply quality.
Sana Sandy, Deputy Commissioner of EWRC, reiterated the commission’s focus on ensuring the production of quality, clean, and safe drinking water. He presented and elucidated the MOU to the committee, outlining mutual commitments and provisions for legal action in case of breaches.
“This MOU strengthens the relationship between our commission and the Water Union,” Sandy affirmed. He noted the MOU’s one-year implementation period with provisions for termination in case of violations.
Herbert Jones, President of the Sierra Leone Water Union, commended the efforts of the committee and EWRC in resolving the dispute, assuring full commitment to the MOU’s provisions. He pledged to ensure nationwide production of quality drinking water, seeking a two-month period for union engagement with all water companies across the country.
“We are ready to make this committee proud and prove that Sierra Leoneans can produce quality water,” Jones asserted.
Hon. Fala Tengbeh urged both parties to prioritize the delivery of clean drinking water to the populace, emphasizing their role in enhancing public health and well-being nationwide.
The MOU signing marks a significant step towards ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water for all Sierra Leoneans, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts between regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders. SEG/27/5/2024