By Gibou Jobe
On Sunday, 6th July 2025, joy and celebration filled the air in Rumba Village, as residents gathered to witness the official presentation of funds for the village’s long-awaited Water Extension Project. This initiative will bring safe, clean water closer to over 60 households, impacting more than 600 lives.
The cheque handover, held in the heart of the village, was more than a formal ceremony; it was a decisive moment of community pride, resilience, and partnership. The project stems from a Mobilising Support Training facilitated by CASA Gambia and the Change the Game Academy (CtGA) in 2024.
Rumba was selected as a case study during the training, where community members identified poor access to clean water as a top concern and co-designed a solution to extend the water supply network.
“This project was born out of the community itself,” said Jerreh Manneh, Coordinator of Mama Africa for Gambia Foundation. “The people of Rumba didn’t wait for a solution; they helped design it and brought it to life.”
The project is a collaborative effort among CASA Gambia, Mama Africa for Gambia Foundation, Change the Game Academy (CTGA), and the Rumba community.
CASA Gambia through CtGA contributed D50,000 towards the project, while Mama Africa for Gambia Foundation is handling coordination on the ground. Community members also contributed resources and labor, showcasing strong ownership and commitment to sustainability.
For many, especially women and children who often walk long distances to fetch water, the project is a life-changing development.
“This is a dream come true,” said the Chairperson of the Water Management Committee. “Water is life, and this will make a big difference for our families.”
Rumba’s success story highlights the power of grassroots action, training, and partnerships, aligning with The Gambia’s broader development goals regarding water access and rural empowerment. It sets a strong example for other communities.
CASA Gambia has committed to monitoring the project and exploring ways to replicate its success elsewhere.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue this journey. Every drop count, and every story matters.
