By Mackie M Jalloh
In a remarkable event on Friday, 1st March 2024, the Rawlings Foundation Sierra Leone took a significant step towards improving the lives of the John Obey Community by funding clean water facilities with a generous sum of NLe 100,000. The Rawlings Foundation, an international Christian missionary NGO institute, is dedicated to not only providing tangible support, but also spreading the message of Christ to foster positive transformation within communities.
The program unfolded at the heart of the John Obey Community, where community stakeholders were engaged in the impactful initiative.
Mr. Hassan Marrah, the Headman of John Obey Community, expressed gratitude, attributing the day to Allah and thanking everyone who witnessed the occasion. He specifically acknowledged the presence of honorable figures in the community and commended the Rawlings Foundation for its ongoing support. Mr. Marrah highlighted the Foundation’s role in sensitizing the youths, steering them away from negative influences like drugs, and lauded their contributions during the challenging times of the coronavirus pandemic.
As the Rawlings Foundation continues to play an active role in the community, Mr. Marrah expressed hope that their support would persist, emphasizing the need for sustained assistance in various aspects. His heartfelt sentiments echoed the collective appreciation for the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of the John Obey Community.
Councilor Paul Sieh Sesay, visibly elated, expressed gratitude to God for the momentous occasion. He noted that, as a Councilor, it is their duty to bring development to the community. Councilor Sesay acknowledged the financial constraints they face, but emphasized the importance of attracting investors. In this pursuit, the Rawlings Foundation became a crucial ally, stepping in to support the ongoing water project that aims to benefit over 2000 community members.
Councilor Sesay recounted the peaceful discussions with the Rawlings Foundation, highlighting the initial estimate of around 137,000 NLe, which Rawlings accepted, pledging a substantial contribution of NLe 100,000. He thanked the Foundation for their support and expressed optimism for the future, hoping that their partnership would lead to more development opportunities.
Mendi S. Bangura, the Water Resources Chairman for the John Obey Community Council, educated the audience on the value of purified water, underscoring its importance for health and disease prevention. He expressed gratitude to the honorable figures for their support and movements, emphasizing their consistent presence. Additionally, Mr. Bangura thanked the Rawlings Foundation, urging them to continue working with the community on the path of development and further financial assistance.
The Youth Chairman acknowledged the significance of the project, emphasizing that water is life. He thanked everyone for their presence and assured the Rawlings Foundation of their commitment to completing the project as planned, and expressed gratitude for the long-awaited opportunity.
Deputy Finance Officer of the Rawlings Foundation, Alieu Fullah, reiterated the Foundation’s commitment to development in Sierra Leone. He emphasized the importance of their duty, rooted in scripture, which encompasses development, education, and youth sensitization. Mr. Fullah thanked his boss for his unwavering support, and expressed appreciation for the Foundation’s involvement in the water project. He assured the community that the impact of the water project would extend beyond John Obey, reaching communities nationwide.
Abdul M. Conteh, the Director of the Rawlings Foundation Sierra Leone, shifted the spotlight onto the community members, acknowledging that every structure within the Rawlings Foundation compound was built with the water previously provided by John Obey. Rather than receiving thanks, he preferred to express gratitude to the community for their ongoing support. Mr. Conteh took the water project request personally, highlighting the Foundation’s commitment to supporting John Obey Community in various capacities.
In conclusion of the program, the symbolic act of presenting the donation of money to the Councilor transpired. The funds were blessed with the community’s goodwill, ensuring that they would be utilized effectively for the betterment of the community.
Honorable Kemokoh Conteh, the keynote speaker during the occasion, commended the Rawlings Foundation for surpassing the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). He congratulated the Foundation for its outstanding contributions and recognized their longstanding partnership with the John Obey Community. Mr. Conteh, having known Rawlings since 2008, attested to the positive impact the Foundation has had on the community, from teaching the word of God to transforming the lives of youths and providing employment opportunities.
Mr. Conteh praised Rawlings for their generosity, citing numerous instances where they have significantly contributed to the well-being of the community. He acknowledged their efforts in helping children, changing the trajectory of youths, and actively participating in community development.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Conteh expressed confidence that the water project would sustain many beyond John Obey Community.
In a heartfelt culmination, the community leaders received the donated funds, vowing to utilize them judiciously for the intended purposes. The collaborative efforts of the Rawlings Foundation and the John Obey Community exemplify the power of compassion and community engagement, setting a positive precedent for future development initiatives. As the Rawlings Foundation continues its mission, the impact of their support is poised to extend far beyond the confines of John Obey, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout Sierra Leone.