Five local communities in Upolu are to benefit from a joint venture between the European Union (EU) and the Government of Samoa through the Civil Society Support Programme II (CSSP II).
The initiative is set to launch stand-alone Ultra Violet (UV) Filtration System Kiosks linked to community water systems that will help eliminate bacteria as well as filter sediments from the water, for communities that are currently under the Samoa Independent Water Scheme (SIWS).
SIWS is a not for profit organization with a total membership of 34 Independent Water Schemes. Established in 2008, the organization has an ongoing commitment to the development of independent water schemes in Samoa.
Independent Water Schemes for Nuusuatia, Sataoa, Aufaga, Maasina and Lona villages services over 3,500 villagers whose water networks are currently without treatment according to the joint press release from EU and CSSP II.
The European Union Head of Section for Economic Growth, Investments and Agriculture, Ms Barbara Riksen said the EU are proud to once again partner with Samoa and in particular with the Samoa Independent Water Schemes Association.
“This is a chemical-free process to remove contaminants and protect against impurities in the untreated water. They are proven to be a quick, reliable and cost effective method of disinfecting water for use,” said Ms Riksen.
“The European Union values Water as life. It is a precondition for human, animal and plant life as well as an indispensable resource for the economy. Water also plays a fundamental role in the climate regulation cycle and protection of water resources, of fresh and salt water ecosystems and of the water we drink and bathe in is therefore one of the cornerstones of environmental protection for the European Union.”
The programme will also educate communities on water storage practices within households in line with Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH) guidelines.
Peseta Noumea Simi, the National Authorising Officer for the Government of Samoa said that this is a development milestone for communities that are committed to effective management of their water resource networks and prioritise access to safe and clean water.
Sulutumu Taiatu Sasa Milo, President of SIWSA acknowledged the U for the project and said the introduction of the UV Kiosk project has greatly boosted morale in the communities’ and enhanced discipline in conserving and managing their water systems. “Clean Healthy Water is the cheapest way to Better Life. SIWSA is grateful and sincerely thanks the EU for this remarkable life-saving contribution”.
The UV Filtration System Kiosks is one of the initiatives under the joint venture project and is approximately worth EUR 65,000 equivalent to SAT 200,000.
