PARAMARIBO — The drinking water supply in Sunny Point has been addressed. President Jennifer Simons and Clifton Lienga, director of the Surinaamsche Waterleiding Maatschappij (SWM), put the drinking water system into operation on Friday by turning the tap. On this occasion, the Head of State emphasized the importance of access to clean drinking water and the responsible use of this essential utility.
President Simons indicated that the drinking water supply in Sunny Point is not a new issue. Water had been transported to the area since 2014 until this supply was stopped in 2019. “Wins’ moni no de furu, we prakseri a volk,” said the head of state. She emphasized that, despite limited financial resources, the government continues to pay attention to basic needs such as water, housing and health care.
“In addition, each building will have its own water tap, to prevent disagreements about the use and payment of water.”
The head of state also emphasized that drinking water must first and foremost be accessible to the Surinamese population. “A watra na fu wi alamala. Surinamese people have the right to the water first and foremost.” She emphasized that the interests of the Surinamese population must come first and that access to drinking water must be given priority over commercial interests (water sales).
SWM director Lienga expressed his appreciation for the cooperation of the residents and the government; According to him, they contributed to the smooth running of the preparations. To simplify registration, it has been decided that residents only need their identity card. In addition, each building will have its own water tap, to prevent disagreements about the use and payment of water.
Work still needs to be carried out for further water supply, including the construction of a connection between Block 3 and Pipeline 20. Director Lienga called on residents to handle the drinking water carefully and not to damage the water pipes. He told people to prefer to register and expressed the possibility of financing options such as paying in installments.
