By Abdullahi Lukman
The April Smiles Foundation has received funding from the European Union Youth Empowerment Fund to implement a water supply project in seven communities in Oyo town.
The project, known as the Koso Unity Water Initiative, will deliver a generator-powered borehole system to provide safe and reliable water to affected villages, according to the foundation’s chairman, Jamiu Owolabi.
Beneficiary communities include Elegbo, Oya Tutu, Efunlete, Koso, Baale Agbo, Odogun and Igbo, all of which have struggled with limited access to clean water.
The funding was secured through the Global Youth Mobilisation, a partnership between the European Union and youth organisations collectively known as the “Big Six,” including the World Organization of the Scout Movement, YMCA, YWCA, World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.
The intervention follows consultations with residents, who highlighted reliance on a single well that could not meet daily water needs. The issue was first raised during a community event organised by the foundation.
Executive Director Adedoja Adeyemi said the proposal was developed in response to these concerns, with the aim of improving water access and living conditions across the communities.
The project is expected to reduce pressure on existing water sources and provide a more sustainable supply for residents.
