By: Joseph T. Weah Nimba D-9 TV, Maryland Reporter +231775514475 or +231886357600

Comprehensive Analysis

Maryland County, Liberia: The Anderson Farm community in Karluway District #3, Maryland, faces severe challenges in securing safe and clean drinking water, with its residents bearing significant health risks due to unsafe water sources. The government and humanitarian organizations have been called upon to intervene to address these pressing issues.

Impact of Safe and Clean Drinking Water on Public Health

Access to clean drinking water is fundamental for public health and well-being. In communities like Anderson Farm, where water contamination is an issue, the risks of waterborne diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid fever become a significant concern. Without reliable access to safe water, residents are vulnerable to these diseases, which can lead to widespread illness, death, and long-term economic costs.

The absence of safe drinking water also exacerbates other public health challenges, such as malnutrition and stunted growth, particularly in children. Access to clean water impacts hygiene practices, as without it, communities struggle to maintain sanitation, further increasing the risk of diseases spreading.

Current Situation: USAID Funding Cuts Globally

President Trump decision for USAID to withdraw all funding globally further complicates the situation. Humanitarian organizations such as USAID play a crucial role in supporting infrastructure development, health interventions, and emergency relief efforts. Their absence creates a significant gap in resources that are needed to implement water purification systems, build proper sanitation infrastructure, and provide ongoing assistance to communities.

This withdrawal of funding globally could have ripple effects on the community’s access to healthcare, education, and food security, as organizations like USAID often facilitate broader social and economic support systems. The loss of USAID support may force local governments, with Liberia being no exception, to shoulder the burden, further straining already limited resources.

Urgent Appeal for Government Intervention

The appeal from Anderson Farm’s local leaders highlights the need for immediate government action to address these intertwined issues. Beyond the water crisis, the community faces economic hardship, with insufficient resources to meet essential needs such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Leaders are calling on the government to prioritize these issues, particularly the installation of water purification systems and the development of reliable water supply infrastructure to ensure the health of the community.

The government is also being urged to assist with staffing needs at the Anderson Farm School.

With a student population of 75, the school is understaffed, and the principal is asking for government intervention to place three teachers on the government payroll to ensure the sustainability of the school and improve the quality of education. Volunteer teachers, while commendable, cannot address the long-term needs of the growing student body, and their efforts may be unsustainable without official government support.

Key Areas for Government and Humanitarian Action

Water Infrastructure and Purification Systems: The government must prioritize the installation of sustainable water systems that can deliver clean and safe water to the community. This could involve building wells, implementing rainwater harvesting systems, or introducing modern water purification technologies.

Healthcare: Alongside addressing water contamination, there is a need for better healthcare facilities and medical supplies in the community to prevent and treat waterborne diseases. Health education on the importance of water hygiene is also crucial.

Educational Support: The shortage of government-employed teachers underscores the need for more investment in the educational sector. Ensuring teachers are properly compensated and supported is vital for the future of the children in the community. Providing the necessary infrastructure and staffing will ensure that the quality of education remains consistent.

Humanitarian Response: With USAID’s withdrawal, local and international NGOs must step in to provide necessary resources. Humanitarian organizations can help bridge the gap by supporting the most vulnerable sectors of society, particularly those facing urgent economic hardship.

The situation in Anderson Farm is a microcosm of larger issues facing many rural communities in Liberia, where access to basic services like clean water and education is limited. The combined challenges of unsafe drinking water, economic struggles, and educational deficits require a coordinated effort from both the government and humanitarian organizations to ensure the well-being of the population. The recent pullback of USAID funding adds to the urgency, making it clear that local governments must take immediate action to address these pressing needs.