No Piss Ya

The trip to Freetown was a success.

I had an enjoyable time, but...

The state of sewer systems in West Africa, and in many developing regions, can be attributed to various historical, economic, and infrastructural factors. It's essential to note that the situation can vary across different countries and cities in West Africa. Here are some factors that contribute to the perceived primitiveness of sewer systems in the region:

Historical Context: Many West African countries were colonized by European powers, and the colonial legacy has had a lasting impact on infrastructure development. The focus during colonization was often on resource extraction rather than comprehensive urban planning and development.

Rapid Urbanization: The region has experienced significant population growth and rapid urbanization in recent decades. This has led to unplanned and informal settlements, where infrastructure, including sewer systems, struggles to keep up with the pace of urban expansion.

Limited Resources: Economic challenges and limited financial resources hinder the development of advanced infrastructure, including modern sewer systems. Governments may prioritize other pressing needs such as healthcare, education, and basic infrastructure over comprehensive sanitation projects.

Lack of Technical Expertise: The planning, design, and implementation of sophisticated sewer systems require specialized technical expertise. Some regions may face challenges in accessing or affording the necessary expertise, leading to the reliance on more basic or traditional sanitation methods.

Environmental Factors: The geographical and environmental conditions in West Africa, including factors like heavy rainfall and flooding, can pose challenges to the construction and maintenance of sewer systems. In some cases, alternative sanitation solutions that are more suitable for the local environment may be preferred.

Population Density and Informal Settlements: High population density in urban areas, combined with the prevalence of informal settlements, makes it challenging to implement and maintain centralized sewer systems. Informal settlements often lack proper planning and infrastructure, exacerbating sanitation issues.

Cultural Practices: Traditional cultural practices may influence sanitation habits and preferences. In some cases, there might be a preference for on-site sanitation solutions, such as pit latrines, over centralized sewer systems.

Efforts are being made in many West African countries to address sanitation challenges and improve infrastructure. International organizations, NGOs, and local governments are working towards sustainable solutions that consider the unique circumstances of each region. This includes implementing decentralized sanitation solutions, promoting hygiene education, and investing in infrastructure development to enhance the overall quality of life in urban and rural areas.