By: Aminata Sesay
The Sierra Leone Water Company (SALWACO) has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming the country’s water sector through innovative engineering solutions, climate-resilient infrastructure, and modern technologies aimed at improving access to safe, reliable, and sustainable water services nationwide.
The Managing Director of SALWACO, Ing. Tiideni Hawa Jabbi, made the commitment while delivering remarks at the opening of the Sierra Leone Institution of Engineers (SLIE) Biennial Conference 2026, held under the theme: “Engineering the Sierra Leone We Desire: A Sustainable Approach.”
Ing. Jabbi stated that Sierra Leone’s future development is closely linked to the availability of reliable water and sanitation services, emphasizing that engineering innovation remains essential in addressing emerging challenges facing the sector.
She explained that SALWACO, which is responsible for providing water supply and related sanitation services across the provinces, continues to play a pivotal role in improving public health, supporting economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life of citizens.
According to her, increasing population growth, climate change, rising demand for water services, and aging infrastructure require a transition toward smarter, more efficient, and sustainable approaches to water management.
She highlighted several strategic initiatives being pursued by SALWACO, including the expansion of water infrastructure, the adoption of climate-resilient technologies, the integration of renewable energy solutions, and the deployment of digital systems such as the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance monitoring, operational efficiency, and service delivery.
“The sustainability of the water sector depends on embracing smart engineering practices that respond to environmental, technological, and social changes,” Ing. Jabbi stated.
The SALWACO Managing Director emphasized that sustained investment in engineering innovation is critical to strengthening the institution’s operational capacity and supporting the Government’s efforts to achieve universal access to clean water and sanitation in line with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6).
She noted that the SLIE Biennial Conference serves as an important platform for engineers, policymakers, researchers, and development partners to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and develop practical solutions to the country’s infrastructure challenges.
As one of the conference sponsors, Ing. Jabbi said SALWACO remains committed to collaborating with professionals and stakeholders to explore sustainable water management strategies that will improve the resilience and sustainability of the sector.
She further called for stronger partnerships among government institutions, engineering bodies, academic institutions, and development organizations, stressing that collective action is essential to building infrastructure capable of supporting Sierra Leone’s long-term development goals.
Reaffirming SALWACO’s commitment to expanding access to safe water and sanitation services, Ing. Jabbi said the company will continue to leverage emerging knowledge, technology, and innovations generated from forums such as the SLIE Biennial Conference to enhance service delivery across the country.
She maintained that achieving a prosperous, resilient, and sustainable Sierra Leone depends on dependable water systems, describing access to clean water as a fundamental pillar of national development and socio-economic progress.
The SLIE Biennial Conference 2026 has attracted local and international engineering experts, policymakers, academics, and development practitioners to discuss solutions related to infrastructure development, climate adaptation, technological advancement, and inclusive growth as Sierra Leone continues its journey toward a more sustainable future.