Empowering Villages: A Story of Initiated Change in Chiok Along Yeri, Ghana

In the heart of the Upper East Region of Ghana, Chiok Along Yeri is a vibrant village with about 600 residents. Until recently, the community faced serious challenges in securing basic resources. The villagers depended heavily on two hand-dug wells that frequently ran dry, especially during the dry season. In our mission to support Chiok Along Yeri, we introduced the Sustainable Village Initiative (SVI), tailored to address specific challenges identified through assessments and community discussions.

Access to clean drinking water and productive dry-season farming emerged as significant needs during our conversations with villagers. These insights spurred our commitment to create positive and lasting changes in their everyday lives.

Challenges Faced by the Community

For years, the village relied on hand-dug wells, each around 20 feet deep. Tragically, these wells generally ran dry by the end of March, leaving residents with few options. When the wells dried up, they often trekked for 30 minutes to a pond, which also depleted quickly during the dry months. This pond, shared with livestock such as sheep, goats, cows, and donkeys, posed severe health risks due to contamination.

The effects of water shortages were profound. According to a community survey, nearly 70% of families reported struggling to find sufficient drinking water. Agricultural activities also suffered, especially in the dry season when crops depended on water availability. Families in Chiok Along Yeri faced ongoing struggles, making daily life a challenge.

The Implementation of the SVI

Recognizing these urgent needs, we activated the SVI. Co-founder of IDPCS, Andrew Heldut, personally travelled for over 30 days to oversee and implement the project. Our first step was a critical needs assessment to hear the priorities of Chiok Along Yeri's residents. This connection helped us design a strategy focused on sustainable solutions.

Drinking water emerged as an immediate priority. We successfully drilled a borehole, providing a reliable source of clean drinking water. The difference has been remarkable. The borehole offers a continuous supply, allowing families to spend less time fetching water and more time engaging in productive activities.

A borehole supplying fresh drinking water to the community

The introduction of the borehole has dramatically changed life in Chiok Along Yeri. With clean water easily accessible, families can now focus on improving their livelihoods and maintaining their health.

Building Community Resilience

The success of the SVI project goes beyond just water and farming improvements; it also strengthens community resilience. Engaging local residents in the decision-making process has revived community spirit. Villagers are more informed and empowered, which is crucial for sustainability.

Working together on agricultural projects and maintaining the borehole fosters stronger relationships among community members. This teamwork lays the groundwork for future initiatives, helping Chiok Along Yeri not just to survive but to thrive.

Looking Ahead: Future Prospects

Although we have made progress in tackling water and agricultural challenges, Chiok Along Yeri's journey is not yet complete. Ongoing support, training, and resources are essential for ensuring long-term sustainability.

We plan to continue collaborating with the village to implement more tailored solutions, such as renewable energy options for powering water pumps. Community involvement will remain vital as we work to improve their living conditions.

Final Thoughts

The story of Chiok Along Yeri showcases what is possible when communities express their needs and receive genuine support. The SVI has provided clean drinking water and opened doors to dry-season farming, demonstrating the potential for positive change.

As we look back on this transformative journey, we see the strength and resilience of Chiok Along Yeri's residents as a beacon of hope for other villages facing similar challenges. Together, we can build a future where every community has the resources and support to thrive for generations.

Through initiatives like these, we can uplift lives and cultivate a brighter tomorrow.