Sierra Leone
Pursuing the physical, spiritual, and social flourishing of all people who lack safe water.
About Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone, also known as Salone, is a captivating country nestled on the southwest coast of West Africa. Its neighbors include Liberia to the southeast and Guinea to the northeast. The nation boasts a tropical climate that encompasses a diverse array of environments, ranging from expansive savannas to lush rainforests. Covering a total area of 71,740 square kilometers (27,699 square miles), Sierra Leone accommodates a population of 7,075,641 as of the 2015 census. The historical tapestry of Sierra Leone includes its tenure as a British colony from 1808 until April 27, 1961. The capital, Freetown, graces the Western Area, which encompasses both rural and urban districts. Divided into five administrative regions, Sierra Leone further delineates into sixteen districts and an intricate web of 190 chiefdoms. The nation proudly showcases its rich cultural tapestry, with sixteen distinct ethnic groups, each with its language and customs. While Sierra Leone doesn’t officially endorse a particular religion, its populace predominantly adheres to Islam and Christianity. A testament to its religious harmony, Sierra Leone is renowned for its exceptional tolerance towards diverse faiths. The religious landscape comprises about 78% Muslims, 21% Christians, and 1% adherents of other beliefs.
Moyamba
Our work
Living Water International Sierra Leone (LWISL) stands as a faith-based International Non-Governmental Organization (INGO) that has been a beacon of hope since its establishment in 2008. As an affiliate of Living Water International (LWI), headquartered in Houston, Texas, LWISL embarked on its mission to transform lives through comprehensive water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs. The organization was officially registered with the Government of Sierra Leone in 2009 and has since fostered impactful collaborations with government bodies and esteemed partners like UNICEF. LWISL’s mandate revolves around bolstering access to improved water, sanitation, and hygiene across Sierra Leone.
7.97 million
Population
36.2%
Lack access to safe water
83.5%
Lack access to improved sanitation
Living Water International Sierra Leone adopts a multifaceted approach to enhance water access, employing both traditional and innovative techniques. Boreholes are drilled utilizing the program’s specialized equipment, and wells previously constructed by other organizations are rehabilitated. The organization also deploys submersible pumps powered by solar energy, ensuring water availability within crucial institutions like health centers. Moreover, harnessing the abundant rainfall, rainwater harvesting systems are installed in schools and other institutions, presenting a sustainable water source.
Promoting holistic hygiene practices is a cornerstone of Living Water International Sierra Leone’s strategy. The organization employs an integrated and participatory methodology to impart hygiene education. Training sessions are held within communities adjacent to water facilities, addressing emerging health concerns. The approach encompasses Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) and Participatory Hygiene and Sanitation Training (PHAST), mobilizing communities for open defecation-free environments. Through partnerships with local leaders and the establishment of Child Health Clubs in schools, LWISL cultivates a culture of proper hygiene practices.
Embedded in its faith-based ethos, Living Water International Sierra Leone integrates the gospel of Jesus Christ into every facet of its work. The organization endeavors to share and demonstrate Christ’s love through staff training, gospel dissemination, and discipleship formation. Water projects themselves become platforms for sharing the gospel through visual representations and oral Bible storytelling. LWISL collaborates with church coordinating groups to unify churches towards the shared goal of spreading the gospel while simultaneously addressing water, sanitation, and hygiene needs.
The living water of Jesus Christ is the guiding force behind Living Water International Sierra Leone’s efforts. Rooted in faith, the organization actively shares the gospel message through various channels, including project visuals and oral storytelling. By partnering with established church groups, LWISL fosters unified efforts to extend the reach of the gospel. These endeavors manifest both nationally and district-wide, promoting church-led, empowering, and relational interventions.
Rosemarie Yema Blake
Country Director
Long-Term Goal / Vision
Our vision for Living Water International Sierra Leone is to be the premier WASH NGO in the country, a trusted partner in transforming lives through water, sanitation, and hygiene initiatives.