The island of Annobón, recently declared an Independent Republic, faces a monumental challenge in its fight for access to drinking water. However, this problem is aggravated by the oppressive control exercised by the dictator Obiang Nguema on the island, preventing the Annobonese government from taking effective measures to resolve this humanitarian crisis.
The Annobón government has its hands tied due to the iron control that Obiang maintains over the island through force. This situation of political oppression prevents local authorities from making independent and effective decisions to address the island's problems, mainly those linked to the supply of drinking water.
The presence of companies such as SOMAGEC, owned by the president of Equatorial Guinea, shows the impunity with which the interests of the regime are managed to the detriment of the population. The stagnant and contaminated water supply is an example of the negligence and disregard for the health and well-being of the inhabitants of Annobón.
Annobón's lack of political and economic autonomy makes it difficult to implement long-term solutions to guarantee sustainable and safe access to drinking water. The resistance of the local population is limited by repression and the lack of resources to deal with the situation effectively.
Given this reality, it is imperative that the international community pay attention to the situation in Annobón and provide both political and humanitarian support to promote significant changes that allow the island to achieve true autonomy and improve the living conditions of its inhabitants.
The problem of access to drinking water in Annobón is just a reflection of the deep injustices and challenges that the island faces due to the oppressive control of Obiang Nguema. Only through collective efforts at the national and international level can we move forward towards a lasting solution that respects the fundamental rights of the population of Annobón.
