Community Responds to Years of Water Neglect in Kangapo

(KAJO-KEJI COUNTY) – Villagers in Litoba, Kangapo One Payam, have taken matters into their own hands by constructing a water well to provide clean drinking water for their community. The initiative comes after years of delayed responses from local authorities and development partners to the ongoing water crisis.

Taban Alex, the project’s team leader, told Access Radio that the community mobilised local resources including sand, bricks, stones and hand tools to begin construction:

“We are working on this well because we do not have clean water here. The community took action because no one else was helping.”

The well replaces the village’s only borehole, which broke down following the outbreak of conflict in 2016. Since then, residents have struggled to access safe water, prompting them to lead the solution themselves.

Alex appealed to government agencies and development partners to support such community led initiatives:

“We hope authorities and partners will back projects like this. Communities cannot wait indefinitely for help.”

The project has received additional support from Titi Foundation, a local NGO working in Kajo-Keji county. Nyolija Alfred Alex, project manager at the foundation, explained that the organisation is providing cement, iron bars and transport costs to help complete the well:

“We saw the Lotiba residents taking responsibility for their own water needs. Our support helps them finish the project and build long-term resilience.”

Alex praised the community for its self reliance and determination:

“This approach promotes ownership and sustainable solutions. It shows what communities can achieve when they take initiative.”

Kajo-Keji county is one of the border areas in Central Equatoria State that was heavily affected by the 2016 conflict. Many returnees continue to face difficulties accessing basic services such as water, health care, shelter and education.

Litoba Community Water Well Details