Senator Jarigbe Commissions Solar-Powered Boreholes in Ugboro, Ubepa, and Afrike Communities to Tackle Water Scarcity
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Access to clean and affordable drinking water has taken a major step forward in Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State as Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe commissioned newly completed solar-powered boreholes in three key communities — Ugboro, Ubepa, and Afrike Okpeche.
The commissioning ceremony, which took place in the communities over the weekend, brings the total number of solar-powered boreholes facilitated by the lawmaker in Bekwarra Local Government Area to 14 since May 7th, marking a significant milestone in efforts to tackle long-standing water scarcity challenges in the region.
Senator Jarigbe’s Representative Urges Communities to Protect Facilities
Representing the Senator at the commissioning event, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, Constituency Officer for the lawmaker, officially inaugurated the projects at Ugboro, Ubepa, and the Customary Court in Afrike Okpeche. He appealed to residents to take ownership of the facilities and protect them against vandalism, noting that sustainability can only be achieved through community responsibility and stewardship.
“The goal is not just to provide water but to ensure it serves generations to come. Sustainability begins with the people, and we must all work together to protect these life-changing facilities,” Mr. Egar emphasised.
Addressing Water Scarcity and Health Concerns
For decades, communities across Bekwarra Local Government Area have faced acute water challenges, with many residents relying on unsafe and distant water sources for daily needs. This situation has had serious implications for public health, economic productivity, and general well-being.
By facilitating solar-powered boreholes, Senator Jarigbe is providing a sustainable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution to water shortages. Unlike traditional boreholes, solar-powered systems ensure consistent water supply while reducing maintenance and operational costs — a critical advantage for rural communities where electricity supply remains unreliable.
Mr. Egar reaffirmed Senator Jarigbe’s commitment to the full implementation of needs assessment projects in Bekwarra, ensuring that development interventions directly address the real needs of the people rather than being driven by political expediency.
Community Leaders Applaud Development Efforts
Residents and traditional leaders from Ugboro, Ubepa, and Afrike Okpeche expressed deep appreciation for the projects, noting that access to clean water would reduce waterborne diseases, improve hygiene, support farming activities, and enhance the overall quality of life in their communities.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, a community elder from Afrike Okpeche described the initiative as “a blessing that has transformed daily life in our villages”.
“For the first time in years, our people can fetch clean water without walking long distances or risking their health. We are grateful to Senator Jarigbe for prioritising the needs of rural communities,” the elder said.
Broader Impact on Bekwarra’s Development Agenda
Since May 7th, the commissioning of 14 solar-powered boreholes across Bekwarra has been part of a broader development agenda championed by Senator Jarigbe to improve healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure within the constituency.
Community members have pledged their continuous support for the lawmaker to enable him to do even more for the growth and sustainable development of Bekwarra Local Government Area.
Akahi News gathered that several residents have already begun organising local maintenance committees to ensure that the newly commissioned boreholes remain functional for years to come.
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