Keur Socé residents protest closure of community-funded water boreholes

Residents of 71 villages in the Keur Socé commune, located in the Kaolack department, are protesting the announced closure of several mini-boreholes and wells. Local collectives claim these water infrastructures were rehabilitated and connected to distribution networks through community contributions totaling more than 50 million FCFA, benefiting approximately 20,000 inhabitants.

The tension follows a visit by a FLEX-EAU delegation, accompanied by the sub-prefect of Ndiédieng and security forces, to inform populations of decisions regarding hydraulic installations. Residents expressed significant discontent, arguing that these community-funded boreholes are essential for their water supply.

Deputy Guy Marius Sagna has denounced the sub-prefect's decision to close the installations, accusing the government of prioritizing the interests of private companies over effective local initiatives. Sagna noted that several villages had previously experienced water shortages for over six months in 2024 due to management failures by FLEX-EAU, prompting the communities to take independent action to secure their water supply.