The Member of Parliament for the Sene East constituency, Dominic Napare, has grilled the Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Dr Freda Akosua Prempeh, in Parliament over the absence of mechanized water systems in the district.
Mr Napare brought Dr. Prempeh to answer questions regarding plans to implement small-town water systems in major towns such as Bodinka, Nyankontre, Nketia Kurom Premuase, and Kojokrom within the Sene East District.
The minister explained that providing three small-town water systems to these areas would address the water needs of the communities, with plans to commence and complete the designs by the end of the first quarter of 2024, contingent on the availability of funds.
Additionally, the MP inquired about plans to introduce solar electricity systems to small-town water systems, specifically focusing on the Kajaji and Basa areas. The minister emphasized the importance of reducing operational costs and ensuring affordability for the beneficiary communities.
Dr Prempeh acknowledged the reform’s objective to enhance water service delivery but highlighted the challenge of high operational costs, particularly in terms of electricity expenses. She disclosed a deliberate strategy to explore sustainable and cost-effective energy options.
Furthermore, the minister outlined a consistent policy to install hybrid pumps in all new water systems and gradually transition existing pumps to hybrid models to incorporate solar energy. Despite acknowledging the initial high costs, she assured that Kajaji and Basa would be considered for hybrid-powered systems when funds become available.
Meanwhile, Mr Napare sought information on the measures the ministry is taking to upgrade the limited mechanized water system in the Basa small town, considering the increased population with the boarding status of the Basa Senior High School.
Dr. Prempeh assured that Basa is among the priority projects in the region, with planned implementation scheduled for 2024, subject to the availability of funds.
