Santa Rosa/San Roman Finally Get Access to Potable Water

In the rural community of San Roman, Stann Creek District, a new rudimentary water system is being installed, bringing hope and excitement to the residents. This essential project aims to provide clean and safe drinking water, significantly improving the quality of life for the community. With the installation of this system, San Roman will no longer have to rely on potentially contaminated water sources, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases and fostering a healthier, more sustainable future for all. Here’s News Five’s Isani Cayetano with the following story.

 

Isani Cayetano, Reporting

Rudimentary water systems are crucial for providing clean and safe drinking water, which is essential for health and well-being. Without these systems, communities like San Roman might have to use contaminated water sources, leading to dangerous waterborne diseases. These basic water systems are key to improving the quality of life and supporting sustainable development in rural areas.

 

Dr. Olusola Oladeji, Health & Nutrition Specialist, UNICEF

“This community has been suffering, [has] had issues with its water for the past fourteen years. We need to commend the effort of the government to ensure that, in partnership with UNICEF and other partners, to ensure that this has become a reality.  This is a demonstration of government and UNICEF’s partnership in supporting the government in terms of the achievement of the sustainable development goals.  Access to water is not only about water, access to water affects health also because the commonest cause of death among children is actually diarrhea and acute respiratory infections which is actually due to [limited] access, when there is no water or poor sanitation.”

 

By cutting down on diseases like cholera, dysentery, and other stomach illnesses, these systems make a big difference in public health. Regular well testing also spots harmful contaminants like bacteria, nitrates, heavy metals, and chemicals that can seep into the water supply.

 

Charles Galvez, Coordinator, Rural Development

“When this government took office, there was a well that was drilled a little before this government took office thereabout, in the old site and that was considered the new well.  When I came on three and a half years ago as the coordinator for the Rural Water Supplies & Sanitation Unit just about when we were supposed to celebrate the inauguration of that, connecting that to the system, I said to myself, and I spoke to the minister and my minister and I said, you know what, I am not comfortable enough, based on my research of the history or the data collected from that well.  Although it was a new well, I needed to do some pump testing of that well.”

 

By catching and fixing issues early, pump testing keeps the water system safe. Having reliable water sources can really boost local economies by helping agriculture, livestock, and small businesses thrive. It also saves people time and effort from fetching water, so they can focus on more productive activities.

 

Rodwell Ferguson, Area Representative, Stann Creek West

“Water is an essence of life, we have to be able conserve it to make sure that we have it for generations to come.  So today is a significant milestone and I am happy that I was able to become a part of what’s happening in Santa Rosa/San Roman today.”

 

Building and maintaining these systems often involve community participation, fostering a sense of ownership and cooperation among residents. Simple, low-cost water systems are easier to maintain and repair, ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience against disruptions.

 

Venancio Itch, Chair, Santa Rosa/San Roman Water Board

“This project is not just about pipes, pumps and reservoirs, it is about life, health and the future of our communities. Your commitment to quality and sustainability ensures that this system will serve for generations to come.  I want to also express my heartfelt appreciation to our local leaders, community members and volunteers who have played an essential role in advocating for this project and ensuring its success.  Your voices, cooperation, patience have been invaluable throughout this journey.  Access to clean water is a fundamental human right and today, we take a huge step forward for improving public health, sanitation and overall quality of life.  This system will not only provide safe drinking water, but will also support agriculture, businesses and daily household needs.”

Isani Cayetano for News Five.