By: Ebrima Mbaye
A compelling story published by The Alkamba Times has directly contributed to improved access to clean water at Pacharr Lower Basic School, demonstrating the powerful impact of investigative and development journalism.
In October 2025, The Alkamba Times highlighted the school’s dire water crisis through a vivid report and video coverage, capturing pupils’ rallying cry: “No Water, No Learning!” The piece detailed how the absence of reliable water sources hampered hygiene, health, and effective teaching for hundreds of students in the Lower Fulladu West district.
The exclusive exposure amplified the community’s plea, drawing attention from development partners. Subsequently, African Relief and Community Development (ARCD), sponsored by Islamic Relief USA, acted decisively by inaugurating a fully functional borehole equipped with ten new water taps across the campus.
School authorities hailed the intervention as “promise made, promise fulfilled,” crediting the timely fulfillment to sustained public awareness sparked by The Alkamba Times’ coverage. The borehole now supplies safe drinking water to pupils, staff, and nearby residents, significantly enhancing learning environments and community well-being.
Pacharr Lower Basic School expressed deep appreciation to The Alkamba Times for consistently championing such grassroots issues and spotlighting solutions that drive real change in rural Gambia.
Reacting to the development, Sainey M.K. Marenah, Founder of The Alkamba Times:
“ This borehole inauguration at Pacharr Lower Basic School powerfully validates the essence of development journalism that The Alkamba Times has championed since its inception. Our October 2025 story—exposing the pupils’ desperate rally under the headline “No Water, No Learning!”—brought the school’s water crisis into the national spotlight, mobilizing partners like ARCD and Islamic Relief USA to deliver swift, tangible relief.
It reaffirms our core mission: to serve Gambians by amplifying the voices of the underserved, holding systems accountable, and catalyzing positive action through fearless, solution-oriented reporting. When media coverage turns awareness into action—bridging communities in need with those who can help—we fulfill our commitment to national progress.
We remain dedicated to prioritizing stories that uplift education, health, and sustainable development, proving that principled journalism can transform lives. Heartfelt thanks to the school community for their trust, and to all partners who responded. This is what happens when we go the extra mile for our people—real impact, one story at a time.”
