Liberia Towns Get 71 Latrines and Clean Water Systems

Over 65,000 people in rural Liberia just gained something many of us take for granted: safe water and private bathrooms.

FACE Africa, a nonprofit working across Liberia, just completed its fourth phase of water projects in Bentol City, Montserrado County. The three-month effort brought 71 household latrines, one hand pump, and one solar-powered water tower to three communities that desperately needed them.

Before the projects began, families in Bassa Town, Belekpoi Town, and Nyema Town faced high rates of waterborne diseases. Women and girls especially bore the burden, without safe bathrooms or nearby clean water sources.

Each new latrine comes with something special: a "Rain-WASH" rainwater harvesting system designed by FACE Africa. The system includes pour flush toilets, septic tanks, and handwashing stations that help families conserve water while practicing proper hygiene.

Operations Manager John Toby emphasized that these aren't just facilities. They're about restoring dignity and safety, particularly for women and girls who previously had no private options.

The organization didn't just build and leave. They trained 65 community members (61.5% women) to maintain the systems and promote healthy behaviors. Three WASH Committees now oversee the facilities, with women making up more than half of each committee's leadership.

The Ripple Effect

The training went beyond maintenance. Sixty women across the three towns learned to make bleach, tile soap, bar soap, and liquid soap. These skills give them paths to income while supporting community hygiene.

The communities are already taking ownership. Residents collected monthly contributions totaling over $35,000 Liberian dollars for maintenance before the facilities even opened. That commitment signals these improvements will last.

Since FACE Africa started working in rural Bentol in 2023, they've built 327 latrines, 11 hand pumps, rehabilitated four existing pumps, and constructed two solar water systems. Each project prioritizes communities with the greatest need.

Country Manager Melma Dee Kidka-Blamo captured the moment perfectly at the dedication ceremony: "When water is clean, life is strong. And today, life is getting stronger in these communities."