A vibrant community celebration has marked the commissioning of the new water storage and reticulation system at Aladura Primary School in Buedu, Sierra Leone. The project, led and implemented by the Rotary Club of Glenferrie and the Rotary Club of Bo, Sierra Leone, reflects a strong international partnership.
Funded with proceeds from the Boroondara Farmers Market, and supported by generous grants from Balwyn Rotary, and the Australian Government through Australia Aid, the initiative will significantly improve water access, hygiene, and learning conditions for students. The event highlighted both community pride and ongoing commitments to education and sustainability, and will deliver benefits to the Buedu community for many years to come.
As a result of the investment by Rotary in the school, Sierra Leone the Deputy Director of Education has committed to the assignment of government-paid teachers to the school.
The commissioning of the new water storage and reticulation system at Aladura Primary School in Buedu, Sierra Leone, was celebrated with a colourful and well-attended community event, marking a significant milestone for the school and its surrounding community.
Proceedings began with a lively march through the village led by school children and a percussion band, setting a festive tone for the day. The formal ceremony was attended by representatives of the Paramount Chief, local and national government officials, education authorities, members of the Rotary Club of Bo, and community stakeholders.
The project, led by the Rotary Club of Glenferrie (Australia) and implemented by the Rotary Club of Bo, was made possible through funds raised at the Boroondara Farmers Market, with generous support from Balwyn Rotary and the Australian Government through Australia Aid. Project leads Amelia Anderson and Taplima Muana were acknowledged for their leadership and commitment.
The ceremony included interfaith prayers, a project overview, and remarks from Rotary Club of Bo President Harun, highlighting Rotary’s mission and community impact.
Taplima Muana, Past President of the Rotary Club of Bo and one of the project’s guiding hands, addressed the gathering. He spoke of the journey; from identifying the need, to planning, to the long effort of bringing clean and reliable water to the school. His words were simple, but powerful: this system would not only provide water, but dignity, health, and opportunity.
Notably, as a result of this and the earlier Rotary VIP Latrine project, commitments have now been secured from education authorities to assign government-paid teachers to the school, and from local leaders to ensure the facility’s ongoing protection.
There were moments of ceremony and symbolism too. The formal dressing of the incoming President for the Rotary Club of Bo, the presentation of a gift, and them, perhaps most
memorable, a demonstration by two pupils on proper handwashing. With quiet confidence, they showed how to use water wisely and maintain hygiene. It was a simple act, yet it captured the essence of the entire project: knowledge, health, and hope flowing together.
A student-led handwashing demonstration reinforced the importance of hygiene, while the official unveiling of the facility by the Honourable Representative marked the culmination of the project. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by the pupils.
This project represents a strong example of Rotary collaboration delivering tangible, lasting benefits.
Rotarians at Work - Clean Fresh Water for the Children of Buedu, Sierra Leone
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