By Gloria Anderson
Meaningful Life International, a non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to providing water and medical care as part of its holistic ministry in rural communities, has unveiled a new drilling rig, advancing its mission to supply clean water to underserved areas in Ghana. Previously, the NGO had to rent drilling equipment at high costs to deliver water to these communities.
The high expenditure spurred the organization’s mission to acquire its own rig, reducing the costs associated with providing this critical resource. The outdoor ceremony marked a significant milestone in the NGO’s ongoing efforts to alleviate water scarcity and address water contamination issues in rural Ghana. Rev. Dr. Godwin Kofi Ahlijah, President of Meaningful Life International, highlighted the dual focus of the organization—providing spiritual guidance alongside essential services such as healthcare and clean water.
“Meaningful Life International is a holistic ministry that seeks to bring the gospel to rural communities in Ghana. We believe that the gospel does not just come through words; it is also demonstrated through deeds,” Rev. Dr. Ahlijah emphasized.
He said the decision to invest in drilling water wells was driven by the prevalence of water-related diseases in rural areas. “Seventy percent of the diseases we encountered were water-related. Rather than merely treating these illnesses with antibiotics, we chose to address the root cause by providing fresh water wells,” he explained.
Over the past 19 years, Meaningful Life International has drilled about 70 wells across Ghana. Communities such as Vudede, Adetsewui, Bosomofreho, Segekope. Rev.Dr. Ahlijah was optimistic that with the new rig, the NGO aims to increase that number to 100 wells in the next two years. This acquisition is particularly timely, as many rural communities are grappling with the devastating effects of illegal mining activities, known locally as “galamsey,” which have led to widespread water contamination. “We hope this rig will bring renewed hope to many rural communities in Ghana, especially those whose water sources have been polluted by galamsey activities,” Rev. Dr. Ahlijah stressed.
Apostle Jude Hama, Former Chief Executive of the Scripture Union drew a parallel between the NGO’s mission and the biblical story of Jesus at Jacob’s well. “This initiative reminds me of Jesus at the well, where He provided both physical water and the promise of living water. It is my prayer that the communities served by Meaningful Life International will experience both physical and spiritual renewal,” he said.
Apostle Hama also offered prayers for the success of the project, invoking blessings upon Rev. Dr. Ahlijah, and the entire team. “May this rig bring joy to many communities as it provides them with clean water, and may those communities experience the love of Jesus through the actions of Meaningful life International ‘’ he prayed.
Rev. Dr. Ahlijah who also doubles as the President of the Ghana Evangelical Missions and Association (GEMA ) called for collaboration from churches, mission agencies, humanitarian organizations, and government bodies to support their vision of eradicating unsafe drinking conditions in Ghana. “We cannot allow people in Ghana in the 21st century to still drink from mud holes. For God’s sake, we need to partner with like-minded organizations to make a lasting impact. Let’s drill these wells and give hope to the people,” he urged.
The newly acquired drilling rig is expected to significantly enhance Meaningful Life International’s capacity to provide clean water to remote communities in Ghana, ensuring that both physical and spiritual needs are met as the organization continues to share the gospel and transform lives.
The NGO conducted a successful test run with the newly unveiled rig by drilling a well in the community of Afienyia. This initial operation demonstrated the rig’s capability to efficiently provide clean water, bringing immediate relief to the residents and marking the start of many future projects aimed at addressing water scarcity in rural areas.
