Stanbic Bank, Asere-Amartse Traditional Authority deliver sustainable water solution to St. Mary’s Anglican Primary School

Stanbic Bank Ghana, in partnership with the traditional authority of Asere-Amartse We in the Ga State, has commissioned a comprehensive water infrastructure project to provide a steady and reliable supply of clean water for pupils and staff of St. Mary’s Anglican Church & Primary School, in Akotolante. The initiative includes a borehole, water pump, booster system, and a polytank to address a long-standing challenge that had disrupted teaching and learning for years.

The project was spearheaded by the Queenmother of Asere-Amartse We, Naa-Amorkor Shika Futru I, known in private life as Marian Amartey and Head, Business Enablement at Stanbic Bank Ghana. It reflects a shared commitment between the Bank and traditional leadership to improve educational outcomes and community wellbeing through sustainable social investments.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Queenmother underscored the broader implications of water access in schools, describing it as both a public health and national development priority. “When schools lack clean water, the effects go far beyond inconvenience. Poor hygiene leads to illness, absenteeism, and ultimately school dropouts. These are the conditions that fuel negative narratives about education and expose young people to social vices. Water may seem basic, but its absence triggers consequences that undermine human capital development.”

She further challenged traditional leaders to expand their role in development, particularly in education. “Cultural preservation is the foundation of our institution, but in today’s context, traditional authorities must also pay critical attention to national development drivers. Education sits at the top. Supporting systems that nurture disciplined, capable children is how we secure the future of our communities and the nation.”

The Queenmother also highlighted how the project embodies Ga values of communal responsibility and stewardship. “Look around you, everyone is here: elders, youth, religious leaders, teachers, and ordinary citizens. This is what community looks like. When people are involved from the start, they take ownership. That sense of collective responsibility ensures sustainability and inspires the next generation to give back.”

Also speaking at the event, Head of Brand and Marketing at Stanbic Bank Ghana, Mawuko Afadzinu, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to community-driven development. “We were pleased to support this initiative because of the passion and clarity of purpose behind it. At Stanbic, we recognize the intrinsic value of children and the long-term benefits of investing in their future. Supporting access to clean water in schools is a practical way to enable growth, health, and learning.”

The Head Teacher of St. Mary’s Anglican Church & Primary School, Reverend Patricia Essuman, described the intervention as transformative. “For many years, our school struggled to access safe water. Pupils and staff had to walk long distances, often at the expense of instructional time and academic performance. Today, we celebrate the resolution of a challenge that has weighed heavily on us. This achievement is a testament to partnership and shared responsibility. We are deeply grateful to all stakeholders who responded to our call and invested in the future of our children.”

The commissioning drew participation from the Asere-Amartse We traditional authority, community members, and religious leaders, reinforcing the collaborative spirit behind the project. For Stanbic Bank Ghana, the initiative aligns with its broader sustainability agenda, supporting inclusive growth and improving quality of life through targeted, high-impact interventions that leave lasting value in the communities it serves.