OMFA Funds NLe 376K Sanitation Upgrade at St. Francis Makeni

OMFA Funds NLe 376K Sanitation Upgrade at St. Francis Makeni

The Old Makeni Franciscans Association (OMFA) has initiated a significant sanitation infrastructure project valued at NLe 376,000 to enhance hygiene and water access at St. Francis School in Makeni. This essential intervention addresses long-standing deficiencies in the existing facilities, which previously compromised student health, comfort, and safety during school hours due to poor hygiene conditions and limited water supply.

The project officially commenced with a ground-breaking ceremony on Saturday, May 16, 2026, on the school campus. The scope of work includes the comprehensive rehabilitation and upgrading of toilet facilities, the installation of a water tank to ensure a reliable supply, and general improvements to overall school sanitation standards.

OMFA President, Inq. Desmond Ray Kanu, emphasized the association's deep concern regarding the state of the facilities, noting that urgent action was necessary to protect pupil health and wellbeing. This initiative is designed to "give the school a facelift and create a healthier environment for learning".

The project is highly relevant given broader national concerns that inadequate school sanitation and hygiene—particularly in high-density learning environments—negatively impact attendance, health outcomes, student concentration, and overall educational experience.

School authorities and Catholic mission representatives have described the intervention as both timely and transformative. Rev. Fr. Peter Momodu Mansaray, Education Secretary of the Catholic Diocese of Makeni, commended the alumni for demonstrating a commitment to Catholic values and responsible community development, stating that the drive "reflects the mission’s commitment to making the school a standard institution".

Acting Principal Steven Saio Gibateh welcomed the support and assured stakeholders that effective monitoring and maintenance systems would be implemented once the project reaches its anticipated completion within the next three to four months.

Supporting the school remains central to OMFA’s mission. As construction proceeds, this project is poised to transition access to clean water and safe, sanitary facilities from a daily challenge into a fundamental and dignified component of the students' learning environment.