Water, sanitation & sustainability - Sierra Leone

Community Savings in Action – Insights from a Recent Field Visit**

During a recent visit by WellFound’s CEO to one of the most remote villages in Sierra Leone, the tangible impact of your support was seen first-hand. Reaching the community required hours of travel by rough roads and footpaths, underscoring both the isolation these villages face and the significance of sustained, community-led investment.

The visit highlighted how community savings groups are transforming daily life. Women proudly shared how pooled savings have enabled them to start and grow small businesses, including food trading, vegetable production, and local services. These enterprises are generating reliable income, improving household stability, and reducing vulnerability during difficult seasons.

Parents spoke about the positive impact on their children’s education. With access to savings, families are now able to pay school fees on time, purchase uniforms and learning materials, and support regular attendance. Teachers reported improved concentration and participation among pupils, as financial pressure on households has eased.

The CEO also witnessed how savings groups are safeguarding essential infrastructure. Community funds are being used to repair and maintain wells promptly, ensuring continuous access to safe water. This has protected health gains, reduced water-related illness, and saved women and children hours each day previously spent collecting unsafe water.

Women’s leadership was a defining feature of the visit. Women manage the savings groups, oversee decision-making, and play a central role in maintaining water points. Their confidence and influence within the community have grown significantly.

This visit confirmed that your donation is delivering lasting change. Even in the most remote villages, community savings are driving self-reliance, sustaining infrastructure, and creating a stronger future led by empowered women.