Kuchiko: After four decades, the Kuchiko Community in Tafa Local Government Area of Niger has finally gained access to potable water, thanks to the Nigerian Indigenous Women in Mining and Natural Resources Organisation (NIWIMNRO). Ms Felicia Dairo, Executive Director of NIWIMNRO, announced the development during the inauguration of a borehole on Thursday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the project was supported by the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. Dairo emphasized that the borehole will be particularly beneficial to the local miners, the majority of whom are women. She noted that the initiative addresses the urgent need for clean and safe water, as the community previously relied on contaminated sources.
Dairo described the borehole as a significant milestone, highlighting its role in improving health, saving time, and restoring dignity to the community. She stated that the organisation aims to empower women in the mining sector and ensure their contributions to sustainable development are recognized. Dairo also called for collaborations with civil groups, donor agencies, and the government to support artisanal miners.
Mrs Halima Ibrahim, Assistant Director of the Artisanal and Small Scale Mining Department at the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, acknowledged the government’s role in supporting the project. Ibrahim stated that the government is committed to enhancing mining activities and helping informal mining groups formalize their operations.
Mrs Victoria Samuel, a member of the Kuchiko Informal Women Mining Group, expressed gratitude for the provision of potable water. She recounted the community’s previous reliance on a polluted river for water, which led to health issues. Samuel highlighted the borehole’s positive impact on the community’s health and daily life.
The Chief of the community, Mr Samuel Hassan, echoed the sentiment, noting the end of the long-standing struggle for clean water. He urged the government to further support the community by providing medical facilities, schools, and roads.
