The Kaduna State Government, in collaboration with UNICEF and with funding support from the Government of the Netherlands, has concluded a targeted training programme for local technicians to improve the sustainability of rural water supply systems across the State.
A total of 21 community-based mechanics, including two women, have graduated from intensive hands-on training in the repair and maintenance of hand-pumped and solar-powered boreholes. The programme aims to reduce breakdown time of water facilities while empowering rural residents with marketable, income-generating skills.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Dr. Gerida Birukila, UNICEF Chief of Field Office in Kaduna, stressed the importance of local capacity in maintaining WASH infrastructure. "Sustainability is key—facilities must be functional long after installation," she said, adding that improved access to clean water boosts health, school attendance, and community resilience.
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RUWASSA DG, Mubarak Ladan, echoed this, noting that local ownership and technical know-how are essential for long-term water infrastructure management. Graduates received toolboxes and certificates, enabling them to launch community-based water service micro-enterprises immediately.
The initiative forms part of the Accelerating Sanitation and Water for All (ASWA III) programme, currently being implemented in Lere and Kagarko LGAs. The project not only strengthens WASH access but also contributes to rural economic development by turning trained artisans into small-scale service providers.
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