The journey
From foundation to fountain
The Al-Awwal Foundation exists to support anyone in need. Clean, safe drinking water close to home was the first place we started.
01
Rooted in Ake
This project began close to home. Ake is where Alhaja Morufah Lawal was born, beside Ààfin Aláké ti Ilẹ̀ Ẹ̀gbá. Regular site visits kept us close to the work and to the community from the very first day.
02
Drilling down to clean water
The work began with a drilling rig on site. It bored deep into the ground to reach a clean, reliable water source for the community.
03
Laying the foundation
Local workers cleared and dug the site by hand, then poured a solid concrete base in the heart of the community, close to the homes and families who needed it most.
04
Raising the tank stand
The team put up a galvanised steel frame with a built-in ladder. It raises the storage tanks high enough for gravity to push water out to the taps.
05
Finishing touches
A drainage channel carries away spilt water and a concrete apron around the fountain keeps the ground firm and clean, with no muddy puddles where children collect water.
06
Built to last
The finished well is electric-powered and holds 5,000 litres of water in two tanks. Each tank is dedicated to one of the women we honour and a tiled fountain with taps lets several families collect water at once.
07
Commissioned with royal blessing
We were received at Ake Palace and HRH of Ake commissioned the well in April 2023. The Imam of the mosque at Ake Palace offered prayers for the project, the community and the souls of those it remembers.
08
Cutting the ribbon
Elders, neighbours and family gathered to open the taps for the first time. They cut the ribbon together and it was a day of gratitude for everyone there.
09
The water flows
Children and families filled their buckets straight away. Local residents have warmly welcomed the well and they no longer have to travel far for water.
10
A celebration for the community
The commissioning took place during Eid. We shared commemorative food packs with the children and families who came to celebrate with us.
