In celebration of World Water Day 2025, Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has partnered with local and international stakeholders to advocate for sustainable water management and address pressing environmental challenges. Observed annually on March 22, this year’s theme, “Water Ecosystem Preservation,” emphasizes the need to protect the country’s critical water resources in the face of growing deforestation, pollution, and climate change.
The Importance of Sierra Leone’s Water Ecosystems
Sierra Leone is home to a diverse array of water ecosystems, including rivers, wetlands, and coastal areas, which serve as lifelines for human consumption, agriculture, and hydropower. Major rivers such as the Rokel, Sewa, and Moa are vital sources of freshwater for millions, while wetlands like the Sierra Leone River Estuary support rich biodiversity.
Despite their importance, these ecosystems are under threat. Key challenges include deforestation and land degradation caused by unsustainable logging and mining practices, water pollution from industrial and domestic waste, erratic rainfall patterns linked to climate change, and urban encroachment on water catchment areas.
Government and Community Initiatives
In response to these challenges, the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, along with various stakeholders, has launched a series of initiatives:
- Legislation and Policy Enforcement: The government has implemented regulations to safeguard key watersheds and established the National Water Resources Management Agency (NWRMA) for sustainable water governance.
- Reforestation and Conservation: Nationwide tree-planting campaigns and reforestation efforts at the Western Area Peninsula National Park aim to combat soil erosion and improve water quality.
- Community Engagement: Awareness campaigns on water conservation, pollution prevention, and biodiversity protection are being conducted in schools and local communities, with support from NGOs such as the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone (CSSL).
- Investment in Water Infrastructure: Upgraded water supply systems, including boreholes and treatment plants, are being deployed to ensure clean drinking water and address pollution challenges.
Protect Sierra Leone Program
A landmark achievement in Sierra Leone’s environmental efforts came earlier this week with the unveiling of the “Protect Sierra Leone” program. Announced by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Abdulai, at the inaugural Forest and Climate Forum in Freetown, the program is designed to tackle deforestation, expand community-led conservation, and safeguard marine ecosystems. The Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, emphasized the government’s commitment to these efforts, citing initiatives like the first Forest Inventory since 1975 and a biodiversity financing framework.
International Support
International partners have pledged significant support. Conservation International has announced plans to open a local office, while the World Bank is backing a $60 million water security project at the Western Area Peninsula Park.
Citizen Responsibility
The government also called on citizens to play an active role in water ecosystem preservation. Individual actions such as reducing plastic waste, practicing sustainable farming, and participating in conservation projects are vital to complement national initiatives.
World Water Day 2025 serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to safeguard Sierra Leone’s water ecosystems. Through a combination of policy, community engagement, and international cooperation, Sierra Leone aims to secure its natural resources for future generations.
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*Guma Communication Unit*