In northern Burkina Faso, communities like Gorom Gorom face daily hardship from displacement and water scarcity. Yet amid these challenges, solidarity endures. With support from the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) and its partners, a single water tower now brings more than just water - it brings relief, restores dignity, and strengthens community ties. When basic needs are met, hope has room to grow.
When water flows again, life finds its way back
A lifeline for 1,500 people, every day
In the town of Gorom Gorom, Sahel Region, the rapid arrival of displaced families has overwhelmed already limited water resources. To address this, NRC, with funding from USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), built a 20-cubic-metre water tower in the middle of the town.
This infrastructure supplies two public standpipes, each fitted with three taps and capable of serving up to 750 people a day - reaching 1,500 individuals daily.
A lifeline for 1,500 people, every day
In the town of Gorom Gorom, Sahel Region, the rapid arrival of displaced families has overwhelmed already limited water resources. To address this, NRC, with funding from USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), built a 20-cubic-metre water tower in the middle of the town.
This infrastructure supplies two public standpipes, each fitted with three taps and capable of serving up to 750 people a day - reaching 1,500 individuals daily.
Not far from the tower, women gather each day to collect water. For the community, this tap is not just about water. It’s also about time regained, burdens eased, and dignity restored.
Bouchra, a member of the local management committee, ensures the taps stay clean and respected. “We’re really relieved to have a tap in our neighbourhood,” she says. “People come from nearby areas too, but everything is done in an orderly, respectful way.”
An effort valued at every level
Besides the communities, the project’s impact is also recognised by local authorities. Amadou Brahima, Deputy Mayor in charge of water, sanitation and hygiene in Gorom Gorom, highlights the value of collaboration.
“We are very satisfied with our partnership with NRC. It’s helping us address major challenges” he says.
For local leaders, NRC’s involvement is more than welcome support - it’s a trusted partnership that reinforces their capacity to respond and builds a shared sense of responsibility for long-term solutions.
Building stability, one drop at a time
From Gorom Gorom to communities across Burkina Faso, NRC’s work in water, hygiene, and sanitation is helping people navigate crisis today while preparing for a more stable tomorrow. These aren’t just services. They are foundations for dignity, health, and hope. Because when access to the essentials is restored, so is the strength of a community.
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