Residents of Agortime Kpetoe in the Agortime Ziope district of the Volta region can now rely on mechanised boreholes to curb water challenges within the area.

The two boreholes were commissioned on May 17, 2025, by Engineer Joshua Kavianu, and his brother Jeff Kavianu, a former Member of Parliament (MP) for Upper Manya Krobo in the Eastern Region.

This intervention is informed by the fulfilment of the brothers’ social responsibility, and forms parts of efforts to improve access to clean and safe drinking water. It comes after persistent water challenges over the years and the recent pollution of a community stream by a chemical van, stressing households and businesses.

In an exclusive interview with Class News, Engineer Joshua Kavianu described the project as fulfilling and a lifeline which will go a long way to serving the next generation when properly maintained.

“It is a great honour and privilege to celebrate this milestone as we commission this borehole project, a project born of necessity, compassion, and our collective resolve to bring hope and dignity to the people of Bedwe,” he added.

“This initiative was undertaken in response to two critical issues: the longstanding lack of potable water in this community, and the recent pollution of the stream that has for decades served as the major source of water for residents. This borehole is not just a structure; it is a lifeline, a direct response to a problem that affects the health, productivity, and survival of our people.”

Joshua underscored the fact many communities across Ghana faced similar challenges, requiring urgent attention to serve lives.

“Our children fall sick without clean water. Schools, clinics, and homes suffer. And with that, development comes to a halt. Today, we are proud to have stepped in not just as sponsors, but as partners in community development. We did what we could with the means available to us to bring some relief to the community,” he said.

“The needs of Agotime and indeed many rural communities in Ghana go far beyond the capacity of individuals or a few organisations. That is why we are using this occasion to respectfully call on the central government to prioritise water infrastructure in these communities. Clean water should not be a privilege reserved for urban areas. It should not be left to chance or charity. It must be a national priority.”

Mr Kavianu further urged agencies such as the Ghana Water Company and the Community Water and Sanitation Agency to respond to the water needs of the people in order to provide sustainable solutions for rural communities across the country.

“We are not asking for the impossible. We are asking for what is right and fair. The borehole is a good beginning, but the work must continue. Our people deserve more. They deserve better,” he urged government.

Mr Kavianu urged residents of Agortime Kpetoe to cultivate a habit of good maintenance to protect the facility for future generations.

“This borehole is now part of your community. Take care of it, maintain it, and protect it. Let it serve not only this generation, but many unborn. Let this modest achievement echo all the way to Accra and spark a renewed national commitment to water security for every Ghanaian, no matter where they live,” he urged.

On his part, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Agotime-Ziope, Alfred Klu Odikro, on behalf of the community, expressed gratitude to the Kavianu family for their support and timely response to their challenges.

He disclosed government was committed to ensuring water supply to every rural community, which Agortime Ziope district would also benefit from.

He assured he will ensure proper maintenance of the project to make it serve the people.

The DCE urged other institutions to come on board to support the district with developmental projects for transformation.

The assembly members for beneficiary communities pledged to ensure the facility was maintained and protected.

Meanwhile, Ghana's water sector goals focus on ensuring sustainable, equitable, and affordable access to safe drinking water and sanitation for all.

This includes improving water quality, increasing efficient water use, and implementing integrated water resource management.

Ghana aims to achieve these goals through policies, investments, and reforms within the water and sanitation sector, ensuring everyone had access to safe and affordable drinking water and adequate sanitation by 2030, as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 6.1.

Speaking on behalf of the Paramount Chief, Nene Akoto-Sah VII, warlord of Agortime Kpetoe, called on the Agotime Kpetoe residents to make good use of the facility and ensure its maintenance.

He urged land owners to embrace development and allow their lands to be used to transform the area.

The Kavianu family was thanked for their timely support to save lives.