By zainab.joaque@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – The Sierra Leone Water Company (SALWACO) has reported impressive financial performance for the first half of 2024, underscoring its commitment to achieving and surpassing its annual revenue targets. Between January and June 2024, the company generated a total of SLE 4,591,730.27, with significant contributions from new connections (SLE 162,218.00), water rates (SLE 4,108,894.27), and water bowser services (SLE 320,618.00).
During a recent budget presentation, Deputy Managing Director Albert H. Harvey shared SALWACO’s 2024 revenue projection of SLE 8,580,825.00. As of mid-year, the company has exceeded its six-month target of SLE 4,290,415.00 by 107% and has achieved 54% of its annual target. These figures reflect SALWACO’s strong financial health and its ability to meet and exceed its financial goals.
Reflecting on the achievements of 2023, SALWACO made significant strides in improving its water supply infrastructure. The company embarked on optimizing water supply stations in Kambia, Kailahun, Moyamba, Kabala, Pujehun, and Magburaka, with these projects now at various stages of implementation. Revenue collection in 2023 increased by 21% from SLE 5,099,985.00 in 2022 to SLE 6,146,581.00, while the volume of water supplied rose by 41% from 1,075,422 m³ to 1,511,641 m³. Customer connections also grew by 14%, from 7,653 to 8,713 connections.
Looking ahead, SALWACO has set ambitious goals for 2025, proposing a budget of SLE 10,252,700.00 and projecting revenue of SLE 12,965,345.00 from service charges, water rates, and water bowser services. Key projects for 2025 include the construction and rehabilitation of the Bonthe Water Supply Facilities, the continuation of the Six Towns Water Supply Project, and the construction of the Makeni Balancing Reservoir. Additionally, SALWACO plans to supply connection materials and water treatment chemicals to enhance service delivery.
The Six Towns Water Supply Project, which aims to benefit over 400,000 people, stands out as a major initiative. Funded by the Government of Sierra Leone, this project is expected to not only expand access to clean and safe water but also create employment opportunities and boost economic activities in the targeted areas.
As part of its commitment to innovation, SALWACO is addressing challenges related to high energy costs and irregular energy supply. The company plans to introduce digital handheld meter reading devices, prepaid meters, and explore systems to safeguard against future water shortages. Additionally, SALWACO is contributing to the FEED SALONE initiative by constructing an irrigation system for 2,000 hectares of land in the Mambolo and Kychon areas.
In a pioneering move, SALWACO is now operating several projects, including the Kabala, Bo, Kenema, and Makeni water supply systems, entirely on solar energy. This initiative not only reduces operational costs but also ensures reliable energy supply, aligning with SALWACO’s commitment to environmental sustainability and customer satisfaction.
During discussions, Finance Minister I, Madam Kadiatu Allie, expressed concern over the paradox of abundant rainfall in Sierra Leone and the persistent struggle for access to clean water. She highlighted the need for improved water management strategies, particularly during the rainy season. “I always wonder, especially during the rainy season, when we receive so much rain, why do we still see people on the streets trying to fetch water just minutes after a downpour?” she remarked.
The Minister emphasized the importance of educating the public on harnessing rainwater, noting that His Excellency, the President, has consistently urged the nation to find ways to reduce rainwater wastage. She suggested the provision of portable rainwater harvesting systems to households as a sustainable alternative, which could alleviate the burden on existing water supply systems and provide a reliable source of water for daily needs.
As SALWACO moves forward with its ambitious plans for 2025, the company remains focused on enhancing its services, expanding its reach, and contributing to the overall development of Sierra Leone’s water sector. ZIJ/24/8/2024
