During the past two days, we embarked on visits with the Uganda Water Project, one of our newer partners. The projects they’ve proposed are primarily well rehabilitation initiatives. Our journey took us to five well sites and a local school, providing us with invaluable insights into the communities we serve.

One distinctive feature of the wells implemented by the Uganda Water Project is their unique design, which incorporates a recharge trench to redirect runoff back into the ground. This fosters sustainability. At two recently rehabilitated well sites, which had only been operational for about a week, we engaged in conversations with local women. With the novelty of improved water access, they expressed uncertainty about how to use the newfound time saved from water collection tasks.

Community Involvement is the Key

We observed freshly constructed latrines and model kitchens. It was evident that community members took pride in these initiatives. Collaborating closely with the Health Division of the local government, the Uganda Water Project ensures the implementation of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) standards, crucial for community health.

 

We encountered heartening scenes.  Gashaw received a chicken in appreciation for his contributions to a well rehabilitation project. Afia, a local Health Division liaison, provided invaluable insights into the challenges faced by these communities.

Pride in Ownership

Witnessing individuals taking ownership of projects, like the man who single-handedly dug latrines and constructed a kitchen to uphold hygiene standards, reaffirmed the transformative impact of community-led initiatives.

We visited a village plagued by a dysfunctional well installed by the government. Lack of structural support and maintenance training and resources result in these wells falling into disrepair, leaving communities with limited access to safe water. Residents described the arduous journey to a nearby swamp, fraught with health hazards like cholera and parasitic infections. These dire conditions underscored the urgency for healthy water solutions.

Reinforcing our Commitment

Our experiences over the past two days have reinforced the critical need for sustainable water infrastructure and community-driven initiatives. As we continue our partnership with the Uganda Water Project, we remain committed to empowering communities and safeguarding their fundamental right to clean water.