By: Audrey Raymonda John
The Guma Valley Water Company has marked 65 years of dedicated service to residents of the Western Area with interfaith thanksgiving services, reaffirming its commitment to unity, resilience, and improved water supply in Sierra Leone’s capital.
The commemorative events were held on Friday, 10 April 2026, at the Freetown Central Mosque, and on Sunday, 12 April 2026, at St. George’s Cathedral in Freetown. The services brought together religious leaders, company staff, and members of the public for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment.
Established on 14 April 1961, the Guma Valley Water Company has remained the backbone of water supply in the Western Area, playing a vital role in public health, economic activity, and urban development. Over the decades, the institution has navigated challenges such as increasing demand, rapid urbanization, and environmental pressures, while continuing to provide essential services to thousands of households.
Speaking at the Freetown Central Mosque, Sheik Abdulai Bah commended the company’s efforts while calling for greater public cooperation. He noted that although challenges in water access persist, Guma has made commendable progress. He urged citizens to support the company by avoiding illegal connections and paying for water services, emphasizing that sustainable water supply is a shared responsibility.
At St. George’s Cathedral, the Dean, Rev. Canon Elkanah Thomas, highlighted the significance of the anniversary and the broader role of the company in national development. He described water as essential to life and acknowledged Guma’s longstanding contribution to public health. While recognizing ongoing challenges, he called for continued collaboration and urged the company to prioritize equitable access to safe water for all communities.
In his remarks, the Managing Director, Ing. Mariwan Kallon, expressed appreciation to both Muslim and Christian communities for their support. He noted that the anniversary was not only a moment of thanksgiving but also an opportunity to seek guidance for future progress.
He emphasized that managing water supply requires both technical expertise and a strong sense of responsibility, adding that the company continues to rely on wisdom and collective effort to overcome operational challenges. He further highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at expanding access and ensuring that more communities benefit from reliable water services.
The interfaith thanksgiving services symbolized unity, gratitude, and a shared vision for the future. As the Guma Valley Water Company enters its next phase, it remains focused on expanding access to underserved areas, improving service reliability and water quality, strengthening partnerships, and promoting responsible water use.
The 65th anniversary serves as a reminder that, despite existing challenges, the foundation built over the years provides a strong platform for transformation and growth. Through continued engagement and commitment, Guma is reinforcing its role not only as a utility provider but also as a key contributor to Sierra Leone’s social and economic development.