By Thaimu T Kamara

The Managing Director of the Guma Valley Water Company, Ing. Mariwan Kallon, has reaffirmed his commitment to improving water supply across Sierra Leone, highlighting a series of ongoing initiatives, challenges, and strategic interventions aimed at ensuring sustainable access to clean water for citizens.

Speaking on recent developments within the water sector, Kallon emphasized that since assuming office, his administration has worked tirelessly to address long-standing issues affecting water distribution, particularly in Freetown and its surrounding communities. He described access to water as a fundamental necessity and reiterated that providing reliable water supply remains a core mandate of the institution.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that every citizen has access to safe and clean water,” Kallon stated. “This is not just a service, but a commitment to the wellbeing and dignity of our people.”

Among the key achievements highlighted was the installation of 366 units of 10,000-litre water storage tanks across various parts of Freetown. These tanks, he noted, have been strategically placed to support water availability in communities that have historically faced shortages, especially during the dry season.

Kallon explained that these interventions are part of a broader effort to strengthen resilience in the water supply system, particularly in the face of seasonal challenges. He acknowledged that the dry season continues to pose significant difficulties due to reduced water levels in reservoirs, which in turn affects distribution capacity.

Despite these challenges, the Managing Director commended the government for its continued financial support toward the water sector. He noted that such funding has been instrumental in enabling the company to implement key infrastructure projects and maintain operations under difficult conditions.

However, Kallon also raised concerns about several persistent issues that undermine the effectiveness of water distribution efforts. Chief among these is the problem of illegal water connections, which he described as a major threat to the system. He warned that unauthorized tapping into pipelines not only disrupts supply to legitimate users but also contributes to significant water loss.

“We urge citizens to refrain from illegal connections,” he said. “These activities damage the system and deprive others of access to water.”

In addition to illegal connections, Kallon pointed to the challenge of non-revenue water — water that is produced but not billed due to leaks, theft, or metering inaccuracies. He explained that this issue results in substantial financial losses for the company, limiting its ability to invest in further improvements.

Commercial losses, including unpaid bills and unauthorized usage, were also identified as key concerns. Kallon stressed the importance of accountability and encouraged consumers to ensure that their water usage is properly authorized and paid for.

Another pressing issue raised was the deliberate damage to water infrastructure, particularly the cutting of pipes by individuals. Kallon described such acts as not only unlawful but detrimental to the collective good, as they lead to service disruptions and increased maintenance costs.

To address these challenges, the Guma Valley Water Company has intensified efforts to monitor the distribution network, repair leakages, and improve billing systems. Kallon emphasized that controlling water loss remains a top priority, as it directly impacts both service delivery and financial sustainability.

He also highlighted ongoing projects aimed at expanding water access to underserved areas. According to him, several towns and communities within the Freetown municipality are being gradually integrated into the water supply network. These efforts, he said, are guided by the company’s mandate to ensure equitable distribution of water resources.

“We are working to connect more communities and extend our reach,” Kallon noted. “No area should be left behind when it comes to access to water.”

Residents in some of these areas have already begun to experience improvements, with increased availability and more reliable supply. Kallon assured that his team remains committed to building on these gains and addressing gaps where they still exist.

Observers have described Kallon’s leadership as proactive and people-centered, noting his consistent engagement with both government stakeholders and local communities. His approach, they say, reflects a clear understanding of the critical role water plays in public health, economic development, and overall quality of life.

As the Guma Valley Water Company continues its efforts, Kallon called for collective responsibility among citizens. He emphasized that safeguarding water infrastructure and complying with regulations are essential to achieving long-term sustainability.

“Water is a shared resource,” he said. “Its protection and proper use require the cooperation of all.”

With ongoing investments, strategic planning, and community engagement, the company aims to overcome existing challenges and move closer to its goal of providing reliable water supply across the country.

Kallon concluded by reaffirming his dedication to the mission, stating that his leadership will continue to prioritize innovation, accountability, and service delivery in the pursuit of improved water access for all Sierra Leoneans.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 13th April 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)