Water Charity’s “WATER FOR EVERYONE” initiative in Madagascar aims to provide clean water for all. The Marolambo project is an important part of this initiative. Following a feasibility study in May 2023, a kiosk model was selected for greater efficiency. The project includes the rehabilitation of upstream facilities, pipelines and distribution systems, as well as the construction of 47 water stations. The project began in September and will take approximately 45 days to complete, providing paid local labor to stimulate the local economy. The total length of the supply pipeline is 2,360 meters and the distribution system is 3,391 meters, with different diameters to optimize functionality. The pipelines are strategically located to ensure efficient water distribution throughout the village.
Program Location
Marolambo, located in the southern part of the Antsinanana region within the Eastern Highlands, is a large village with three fokontany: Antanambao, Vohidiavolana and Vohitromby-II. Marolambo hosts the district and commune offices and has a population of 7763. Despite its size, the village has been consistently overlooked by aid programs since their inception.
Access to Marolambo is by 6 x 6 trucks, motorcycles, and on foot. The community water system, built-in 2003 and upgraded in 2013, draws water from a perennial stream located 2.5 km outside the village. The system includes an upstream filter and two large 60k m3 tanks, and uses a PVC pipeline to transport water to the village and distribute it through a network of pipes. Although the system was originally designed with approximately 48 water points, only 15 public points are operational. The community monitors the water system, but the upstream section is affected by silt and debris, and the pipeline has deteriorated, resulting in numerous leaks. Unauthorized taps into the pipeline have also compromised the distribution system, with some stations lacking valves and running continuously. As a result, the flow of water has decreased significantly, causing disruptions to functioning water stations and forcing many in the village to rely on contaminated urban streams for water.
Problem Addressed
The Marolambo municipal water system was built 20 years ago. It is a surface water system collecting water from a dammed stream, piping it 2.3 kilometers to the village and delivering it to 48 water stations throughout the village. The water system is no longer functional. The upstream facilities are filled with mud, only fifteen water stations work, and the pipeline is leaking profusely, depleting the water flow and shutting down the system.
Many villagers use contaminated water from urban streams and ponds. Water-borne disease is widespread with an average of 245 cases of diarrhea reported annually. The Mayor of the Commune recognizes the problem, believes it will only get worse and asked for a help in a letter dated May 17, 2023.
Marolambo Water Infrastructure Issues
The current water system built two decades ago, is on the brink of complete failure due to age, inadequate maintenance, human activity, and weak management.
Catchment
The catchment site is filled with mud and debris, limiting water collection and causing overflow. The pre-filter is clogged with mud sludge and non-functional.
Filter Unit
The current water system built two decades ago, is on the brink of complete failure due to age, inadequate maintenance, human activity, and weak management.
Transit Pipeline
Seventeen water leaks between the filter and holding tanks result in pressure loss. Leaks are caused by surface exposure, unauthorized taps, changes in pipe size, improper repairs, and construction on the pipeline.
Holding Tanks
Both 45m: 3 tanks are dirty, not fully filled, and one is leaking.
Distribution System
The pipeline network and forty-eight water stands are in extreme disrepair, with numerous leaks. Unauthorized connections, broken stands, and lack of a pipeline map hinder maintenance.
Accessibility
Some areas are too high for gravity feed, requiring alternative sources like a new drill well.
Infrastructure Management
Managed by the Commune without an established structure. Technicians lack training, tools, and parts. The Catholic Mission owns the only drilled well, operating a successful commercial model.
Public Consultation Meeting
Stakeholders express support for WFE – Water For Everyone initiative. Questions addressed project details, water quality, and local employment plans.
Logistics
Challenges include impassable roads, limited traffic, and unpredictable road travel. 4WD trucks, 6WD trucks, and motorcycles are used for transportation, with logistical planning essential.
Project Objectives
The Marolambo Water Rehabilitation Project is a crucial initiative that aims to provide clean water services to the village, leaving no room for waterborne diseases. The project is designed to elevate sanitation and personal hygiene standards, ensuring a healthier and more productive community. With this project, we can significantly improve the quality of life for all residents, especially the most vulnerable, by providing better protection against illnesses. We are confident that this project will make a significant impact, contributing to a more prosperous and healthy community.
In summary, the Marolambo Water Rehabilitation Project is designed to achieve the following objectives:
1. Restore water services to the Marolambo village.
2. Decrease the incidence of waterborne diseases and improve sanitation and personal hygiene.
3. Enhance the overall health, productivity, and quality of life for the population.
4. Provide better protection for vulnerable populations against serious illnesses.
NEW CONSTRUCTION: 47 Water Stations, 3391 meters of new pipeline, buried to 0.8 meters
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Overall Summary
The Marolambo Project is Water Charity’s triumphant gravitational water supply project in Madagascar. It’s a remarkable undertaking that encompasses a dam, filters, tanks, chlorination boxes, kiosks, and standpoints. Despite facing many challenges, our team completed the work to the highest professional standards. We treated the water to eliminate Escherichia coli and recruited technicians and volunteers to ensure the system’s proper use and maintenance. By doing so, we’ve made a lasting impact on the communities that were in dire need of clean water. This project is a testament to Water Charity’s ability to transform lives and create positive change. We’re proud to have collaborated with MWP on this venture, which is part of our “WATER FOR EVERYONE” initiative that was introduced and implemented in Madagascar since October 2022.
Achievements – Marolambo Water Project
A. Source Taking Point: a. Improved water source with a new small dam to divert mud and debris. b. Installed a 75mm PEHD hose for efficient water collection. c. Protected the hose with medium-sized gravel.
B. Dam (Retention Tank): a. Raised the dam’s main face for increased water retention. b. Constructed walls to prevent contamination. c. Installed a 60mm PEHD valve for drainage during maintenance.
C. Loading Chamber: a. Installed a screen at the water inlet to prevent sludge and debris. b. Coated and created a new concrete lid. c. Conducted readjustment and plumbing work.
D. Filter 1 and Filter 2: a. Removed sludge and waste filter elements. b. Made plumbing modifications for better functionality. c. Installed overflow and outlet mechanisms.
E. Supply and Distribution Lines: a. Laid new PEHD hoses, connected with new connectors, and restored trenches. b. Installed chambers for purge, sectioning, and drain valves.
F. Holding Tank and Water Quality: a. Rehabilitated two storage tanks. b. Replaced old piping and installed new branches. c. Ensured water quality with treatment facilities. d. Installed a flow meter and electro-chlorinator.
H. Water Delivery Points: a. Installed 20 public kiosks and 10 standpipes for public institutions.
I. Management and Sustainability: a. Recruited two technicians and 20 volunteers for system maintenance. b. Instituted a membership fee for infrastructure maintenance. c. Established agreements on usage terms and set a free water day on Saturdays.
J. Challenges and Difficulties: a. Faced challenges due to poor access, delays in material supply, and shortage of skilled workers.
The funds for this program have been advanced by Water Charity. Your donation using this Donate button will ensure that we have funds available to accomplish this project.
Foni Kansala- is one of the nine districts of the West Coast Region of The Gambia, located south of the Gambia River in the southwest of the country. Foni Kansala is located in the southeast of the division, between Foni Bintang-Karenai and Foni Bondali. This area of the country is prone to illegal deforestation, especially for rosewood. The area is also prone to forest fires, which has led to a shortage of fresh drinking water. According to Global Forest Watch reports, Foni Kansala district has 29.9 ha of tree cover in 2010, which is 0.21% of its land area. In 2009, it lost 75.0mha of tree cover, equivalent to 23.0t of CO2 emissions. In the Foni Kansala district, the peak fire season typically begins in mid-February and lasts approximately 12 weeks. All of these factors have made life difficult for the indigenous tribes living in the district, especially when it comes to clean drinking water. In particular, the district is dominated by the Jola tribe and a handful of Mandinka tribes.
The Water for Everyone program aims to give five communities in the Foni Kansala District of the West Coast Region access to clean drinking water and improve sanitation for over 1,500 individuals, especially vulnerable women and children. We are committed to helping the people of the West Coast Region overcome their challenges and improve their quality of life.
BAJIRAN VILLAGE
GPS: N13°17.187 W015°58.203, Population: 400
5 stainless steel pipes with rods, new conversion head, 4 culverts, check-nuts, concrete belt for the well, dewatering and sanitizing the well, hand washing station. The contractor will construct a new trough for the village ruminants to drink from, which will help the community economically.
Bajiran is located about 7 KM north of the Trans-Gambia South Bank Road via Mayork. It is a community of about 400 people. The community consists mainly of the Jola tribe, with a small group of Fula herdsmen. The community’s only water source, a hand pump, has been broken for a long time. It is also infested with rodents. The villagers now use open wells as their water source. According to the public health officer stationed at the district hospital in Sibanor. The community has one of the highest rates of water-borne diseases in the district. This has a severe impact on women and children, especially those under the age of 5.
BUROCK VILLAGE
GPS: N13°14.552 W016°02.440, Population: 350
Conversion head, 2 new cylinder, 2 stainless steel pipes, pedestal, nuts, hand washing station, new concrete slab. The contractor will construct a new water trough for the village ruminants to drink from, which will help the community economically.
This community is located about 2 km northeast of Kamfenda along the Trans-Gambia South Bank Road. The community is made up of the Jola tribe, who survive mainly on subsistence farming of groundnuts, millet, corn, and some engage in local tilapia fishing along the banks of the Gambia River. The remote village has only one water source that serves the entire village, and as a result of high pressure, it is constantly breaking down due to poor standard parts and repairs. This is forcing the villagers to use open wells, which is causing them to get sick.
JIRAMBA VILLAGE
GPS: N13°15.179 W016°00.893, Population: 250
New cylinder, conversion head, concrete reinforcement, 2 culverts, hand washing station. The contractor will construct a new trough for the village ruminants to drink from, which will help the community economically.
Jiramba is located about 3km north of the Trans-Gambia South Bank Road via Sangajor. It is a Jola community of about 250 people. It is a subsistence farming community growing groundnut, millet and rice. The women are involved in raising domestic animals such as goats and sheep. This helps to alleviate hunger during the hunger season from June to August. The community is remote and mostly forgotten. It has only one hand pump, which used to serve the entire community, but it broke down over time. The community has long used open wells for drinking and other household activities. It is also home to several refugees who fled from the Cassamance region of southern Senegal. The water crisis in this village is enormous.
KURUDULAI VILLAGE
GPS: N13°13.550 W016°05.108, Population: 300
New cylinder, conversion head, 1 stainless steel pipe, concrete slab reinforcement, dewatering and sanitizing well. The contractor will construct a new trough for the village ruminants to drink from, which will help the community economically.
This community is located at the Bujiga Junction along the Trans Gambia South Bank Road. It is about one kilometer from Bwiam. The community is a subsistence farming community growing groundnut, millet and rice with some growing traditional Jola delicacy herbs called “Kuchaa”. The village has been suffering from water shortage as the only water source serving the community broke down years ago and as a result, some people have resorted to using open wells which has resulted in sickness, especially among women and children.
SARINGA VILLAGE
GPS: N13°13.201 W016°06.269, Population: 250
New cylinder, rod couplings (stainless steel), conversion head, concrete reinforcement, hand washing station. The contractor will construct a new trough for the village ruminants to drink from, which will help the community economically.
This community is located about 2 KM northeast of Kambong along the Trans-Gambia South Bank Road. It is a remote and isolated community. It is a subsistence farming community growing groundnut, maize and millet. The village women are engaged in the seasonal cultivation of indigenous forest fruits such as “kaba” and “foleh”. These are often sold at the weekly markets in Bwiam and Kalagi. The proceeds are used to support household food for survival. The community is a Jola tribe community with a handful of Fula tribe who migrated from the eastern part of the country. The community has only one water source, which has not been working for a long time, causing severe water shortages in the village and forcing villagers to travel to distant Kambong and other villages in search of water.
To read details about the Foni Kansala District Handpump Repair Tour Phase 1, CLICK HERE.
To read details about the Foni Kansala District Rehab Tour – Phase 2, CLICK HERE.
Niamina East District Rehab Tour Phase 1 – The Gambia
Niamina East is one of the ten districts of the Central River Region of The Gambia. It is located within the Janjanbureh Area Council. The district covers an area of about 395.6 km² with a population of about 34,000, of which 47.5% are male and 52.5% are female. Subsistence farming remains the dominant occupation in the district. The district is well known for its “Kangkurang” festivals and the ancient cultural practice of “Namasita”. It is also a historical and cultural place bearing the marks of the Kurang, Marena and Ceesay clans.
The Central River Region is one of the poorest regions in The Gambia, and within the region, Niamina East District remains poor, especially in the area of water sanitation and hygiene, with a lack of basic clean water and sanitation. According to the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS). 1% of the country practices open defecation. The Central River region accounts for a large proportion of this population. This is a result of the unavailability of basic clean water, sanitation and hygiene in communities across the region.
Kudang, one of the market towns in the district. A weekly market is held in the town, locally called “Loumo”. Communities across the district practice the weekly “Loumo” market, where farmers and local traders gather in the town of Kudang to sell their goods. This attracts people from across the border villages in Senegal. Most people in the villages of Niamina East are engaged in subsistence agriculture – there is a recognized “hungry season” when food is scarce but agricultural work is most intense. There are serious environmental and ecological vulnerabilities, especially with increasing desertification. The district is also home to mangroves, which are found at the land-sea interface in tropical regions and provide a considerable range of ecosystem goods and services. Mangrove ecosystems are highly effective carbon sinks, sequestering large amounts of carbon in the soil, leaves, branches, roots, etc.
The Water for Everyone program aims to give five communities in the Niamina East District access to clean drinking water and improve sanitation for over 3,500 individuals, especially vulnerable women and children. We are committed to helping the people of Upper Saloum overcome the challenges they face and improve their quality of life.
BAMBAKOLONG VILLAGE
GPS: N13°36.453 W015°08.150, Population: 300
1 Conversion head, 1 new cylinder, 2 stainless steel pipes, concrete slab, de-watering and sanitizing well, hand washing station, new concrete slab. The contractor will construct a new water trough for the village ruminants to drink from, which will help the community economically.
Bambakolong is a village located on the Trans-Gambia South Bank Road about 12 km west of Kudang. The community is a Fula and Mandinka settlement. The village name is derived from the Mandinka words Bamba Kolongo which means crocodile pool. It is believed to be an ancient traditional shrine for early animist settlers. The community is a subsistence farming community that grows maize, peanuts and rice. The community is facing a water crisis as the current water source is broken. This has resulted in many people using contaminated open wells, which has a detrimental effect on health.
MADINA CHAMEN VILLAGE
GPS: N13°37.177 W015°07.438, Population: 250
New cylinder, conversion head, dewatering and sanitizing well, 1 stainless steel pipe, rod couplings, 7 centralizers, hand washing station, the contractor will construct a new trough for the village ruminants to drink from, which will help the community economically.
This village is located about 9 km west of Kudang along the Trans-Gambia South Bank Road. It is a community of the Wollof Fana Fana tribe. The ancestral lineage of the village is the Cham dynasty who are believed to have migrated from the ancient Senegalese kingdom of Walo and Kajor and later settled in various parts of the Gambia in the early 19th century. The Cham clan are believed to be well-known blacksmiths, locally called “Tegga”, and some still maintain these cultures. However, they are sometimes stigmatized and treated as inferior to the “Guewel” (praise singers) within the Wollof social fabric. The community is a subsistence farming community, growing groundnuts, millet and rice, with a handful practicing traditional blacksmithing, making hoes, axes and other traditional farming implements. The village has been suffering from lack of clean drinking water as the only water source in the village has broken down and as a result they have been using old open wells which has caused serious health complications.
SINCHU GUNDO VILLAGE
GPS: N13°36.902 W015°01.880, Population: 800
1 conversion, dewatering and sanitizing the well, 1 stainless steel pipe, hand washing station. The contractor will construct a new trough for the village ruminants to drink from, which will help the community economically.
This community is located about 9 km east of Kudang along the Trans-Gambia South Bank Road. It is a Fula community with some new settlers from the Bambara tribe who migrated from Mali as a result of the crisis in Mali. The community is thriving and living in harmony. The Fula tribe of the village are traditional herders of the “Torrodo” of Fouta Torro, but the village itself is a subsistence farming community that grows maize, peanuts and corn. The community is facing a water crisis as the water source that serves the community has been broken for a long time and as a result they travel to the neighboring village of Sinchu Alagie to get a few buckets of water. This is not often well received by the community of Sinchu Alagie, with whom they have had some land disputes in the past. Providing them with a working clean water source will go a long way in preventing any future disputes or fights between them and their neighboring villages.
TUBA DEMBA SAMA VILLAGE
GPS: N13°39.871 W014°58.528, Population: 900
New cylinder, 1 conversion head, rod couplings (stainless steel), 6 stainless steel pipes, dewatering and sanitizing the well, concrete slab enforcement, plus hand washing station. The contractor will construct a new trough for the village ruminants to drink from, which will help the community economically.
This village is located about 5km northeast of Kudang Junction on the Trans-Gambia South Bank Road. The community is a Mandinka tribal settlement. The community depends on subsistence farming, mainly groundnut, millet and maize. Some people also fish tilapia, crabs and oysters from the mangroves along the banks of the Gambia River. Women also collect traditional medicinal herbs from the bush and usually sell them at weekly markets called “Loumo” in Kudang. This helps to support the household and other social activities. The community is facing a severe water crisis as the current water source is not sufficient for the community, resulting in many households relying on contaminated open wells with serious health implications.
SOTOKOI VILLAGE
GPS: N13°38.736 W015°06.473, Population: 1200
1 Conversion head, 1 new cylinder, check-nuts, rod couplings, 6 centralizers, concrete slab enforcement, 50cm perimeter fencing (for animal intrusion), hand washing station, the contractor will construct a new water trough for the village ruminants to drink from, which will help the community economically.
Sotokoi Village is located on the Trans-Gambia South Bank Road about 7km west of Kudang. It is a Mandinka community. The community is a subsistence farming community that grows groundnuts, millet and maize. The community suffers from water scarcity due to its size and a very limited water source. Those on the outskirts of the village are often without water, making them more vulnerable to open wells and other contaminated waterborne diseases. Although a decade long, the land dispute between Sotokoi and Njie Kunda village has been resolved. The effects of the water shortage still linger in the community, as they are reluctant to travel to neighboring Njie Kunda village in search of water.
UPPER SALOUM DISTRICT REHAB TOUR PHASE 2 – The Gambia
Upper Saloum is one of the ten districts of the Central River Region of The Gambia. The district covers an area of about 155.8 km² with a population of about 24,000 people, of which 44.6% are male and 55.4% are female. Subsistence agriculture remains the dominant occupation in the district.
The Central River Region, located in The Gambia, is one of the poorest regions in the country. Within the region, Upper Saloum District is considered one of the most impoverished districts, with a lack of basic access to clean water and sanitation. Most people living in the villages of Upper Saloum rely on subsistence agriculture as their main source of livelihood. There is a recognized “hungry season” when food is scarce, but agricultural work is most intense. The district faces serious environmental and ecological challenges, especially with the increasing desertification. Among the notable features of Upper Saloum are the mangroves, which are found at the land-sea interface in tropical regions and provide various ecosystem goods and services. Mangrove ecosystems are highly effective carbon sinks, sequestering large amounts of carbon in the soil, leaves, branches, roots, and other parts. Kaur, one of the market towns of Lower Saloum, is also located in Upper Saloum, and used to have a groundnut processing plant and associated export trade via the Gambia River, but this ceased over a decade ago.
The Water for Everyone program aims to give eight communities in the Upper Saloum District access to clean drinking water and improve sanitation for over 3,500 individuals, especially vulnerable women and children. We are committed to helping the people of Upper Saloum overcome the challenges they face and improve their quality of life.
Jareng Ali Fatty Village : GPS : N13ᴼ42.747 W015ᴼ15.758
Conversion head, cylinder, 2 stainless pipes, extra ground concrete, rod couplings, concrete water trough and hand washing station. Estimated Population: 350
Conversion head, cylinder, 1 stainless steel pipe, rod couplings, concrete water trough, plus hand washing station. Estimated Population: 300
Jareng Mbayen Village : GPS : N13ᴼ42.569 W015ᴼ15.653
Cylinder, conversion head, extra ground concrete, concrete water trough, hand washing station. Estimated population: 400
Kerr Galajo Village: N13ᴼ41.021 W015ᴼ14.682
Cylinder, conversion head, check nuts, 4 stainless steel pipes, extra ground concrete, plus hand washing station. Estimated population: 500
Kerr Waka Village: GPS: N13ᴼ40.903 W015ᴼ14.331
Dewatering and sanitizing well, cylinder, conversion head, centralizer, extra ground concrete, concrete water trough and hand washing station. Estimated population: 350
Mamut Fana Village: N13ᴼ40.590 W015ᴼ13.965
Concrete slab, 2 stainless steel pipes, re-digging, de-watering and sanitizing well, extra ground concrete, cylinder, concrete water trough, plus hand washing station. Estimated Population: 600
Mbolgoh Sulay Village: N13ᴼ44.933 W015ᴼ14.468
Cylinder, conversion heads, 6 stainless steel pipes, check nuts, re-digging, de-watering and sanitizing well, extra ground concrete, concrete water trough, hand washing station. Estimated population: 700
Njokoben Village : GPS : N13ᴼ44.725 W015ᴼ14.463
Cylinder, conversion head, extra ground concrete, concrete water trough, hand washing station. Estimated population: 250
Children washing utensils now that there is water available the households in the community feel secure and safer
Foni Bintang-Karenai, located in the West Coast region of The Gambia, is one of the country’s nine districts. It is located in the southwest of The Gambia, on the southern bank of the Gambia River. It is centrally located in the southern part of the region and is flanked by Foni Kansala and Foni Brefet. This district is predominantly inhabited by the Jola tribe, with some presence of Fula and Mandinka tribes. The majority of the district’s inhabitants are subsistence farmers who grow crops such as groundnuts, maize and millet. Notably, some members, especially women, are involved in the collection and sale of wild herbs with traditional medicinal uses, including herbs known as “Mborr Mborr,” “Kinkiliba,” and “Sangfito,” which are closely associated with the district. Foni Bintang-Karenai retains its rich traditional tribal culture and has served as a source of typical Jola and Mandinka tribal history and traditional ways of life. In addition, the district is home to an ancient Mandinka love poem called “Masannehsisay Bintang Bolong daala,” performed by local griots known as “Jali,” which depicts the romantic relationship between a powerful man believed to possess mystical powers and a lower caste woman afflicted by malevolent forces.
However, the district faces significant challenges, including illegal deforestation, particularly for rosewood, and vulnerability to forest fires, resulting in a lack of clean drinking water. According to Global Forest Watch, in 2010 the district had 243 hectares of tree cover, or 1.7% of its land area. By 2021, it had lost 225 hectares of tree cover, equivalent to 76.5 tons of CO2 emissions. The peak fire season in the Foni Bintang Karenai district typically begins in mid-February and lasts approximately 12 weeks. These factors combine to exacerbate the hardships faced by the indigenous tribes living in the district, particularly with regard to access to clean drinking water. The district also borders Senegal’s Casamance region, which is known for a four-decade-long separatist conflict. As a result, the district has become a haven for numerous refugees, exacerbating the existing clean water crisis. The border between Casamance and The Gambia is extensive and porous, characterized by a lack of official crossing points and relatively unimpeded movement. Historical links between border communities, including intermarriage and shared social norms, have existed since pre-colonial times. Although most refugees have returned as tensions have eased, the lack of safe drinking water remains a pressing concern for communities in the district.
ARANGALLEN VILLAGE
The smiles says it all. When there is water there is happiness
Hand washing culture is important for children to learn from
Conducting water quality test after completion of all works is paramount in our work
Water quality test result
Laying the pipes for dewatering
Getting ready for re-digging and dewatering
All hands on deck while the re-digging in on going
Clearing all the dirt from the well prior to re-digging and dewatering exercise
Ssenior supervisor inspecting the strategies for the work plan prior to commencing of works
Work in progress
This rehabilitation project will directly provide thousands of people with access to clean drinking water, which will have a significant impact on their health and overall living conditions. It will particularly benefit women and girls, who often bear the burden of household water collection. Increased access to clean water will allow girls to improve their educational opportunities and empower women socially and economically, especially within their households, as they currently spend a significant amount of time collecting water on a daily basis. In addition, it will foster harmony and understanding among community members, reducing conflicts that can arise during water collection.
OUTCOME
This project has been successfully completed thanks to Water Charity and its local partner Working Water The Gambia (WWG). This is one of a series of projects launched under the Water for Everyone initiative. The mission of the project was to improve water access and sanitation in 5 villages in Foni Bintang Karenai District by rehabilitating hand pumps, installing new ones where necessary and providing hand washing stations to improve sanitation and hygiene in the communities of ARANGALLEN VILLAGE, BULANJORR VILLAGE, BURAM VILLAGE, JAKOI BINTANG VILLAGE and KANGDONGKU VILLAGE. Thanks to the collaborative support of the villagers in all these villages, the project was successfully completed. This project provides access to clean water and sanitation for over 3,000 people.
BULANJORR VILLAGE
Isatou is pleased to see water flowing again in her community
Head of the village on the right celebrating the joy with his assistant village head
Conducting water quality testing is paramount to our work
Mounting the conversion head
Dismantling the handpump
Making a concrete belt for the protection of the well
Collecting sand and gravel for concrete mixing
ACTIVITIES
The project successfully completed the following tasks: draining the wells, re-digging them, and installing new German Mark 2 cylinders and conversion heads. In addition, stainless steel pipes, rod couplings, check nuts, bases, axles, and bearings were installed. Concrete water troughs were constructed, new culverts were added to the wells, and concrete slabs were laid. Hand-washing stations were set up and supplied with detergents in all the communities involved in the project. In collaboration with the Gambia’s Department of Water Resources, quality testing and treatment were conducted at the completion of each community project. Educational sessions were held in each community to teach effective handwashing techniques and simple water management methods. The communities also actively participated in manual labor, including digging and collecting sand and gravel. They also hosted workers to ensure safe storage of all materials.
BURAM VILLAGE
Happiness flowing along with clean water for the community
Inculcating the culture of hand washing in communities by providing hand washing stations and detergents is pivotal component of our projects
When clean water starts flowing the smiles starts getting brighter. Water is life
Fresh clean drinking water for the community
Always ensuring water quality testing is done after completion of works
Working on the concrete support pavement for the well
All hand on deck to get work going
Members of the community mobilizing to support the works
The old cylinder
Dismantling the handpump iron pipes to be replaced woith stainless steel ones to avoid corrosion and keep the water fresh and healthy to use
Taking off the conversion heads of the twin handpumps
Work in progress
OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT
The primary objective of this project is to provide clean drinking water and better sanitation for the people of the selected 5 villages in Foni Bintang Karenai District as for the second phase of the project. This has been successfully achieved at the completion of the project.
The Foni region has long suffered from a lack of clean drinking water. The region has been hit hard by massive deforestation and frequent bushfires. The conflict between Senegalese forces and separatist rebels in the southern Senegalese region of Cassamance has also exacerbated the situation in the Foni region, which shares a long border with Cassamance. The mass movement of refugees from the recent clashes has exacerbated the water crisis for the communities hosting the refugees. One of the objectives of the project is to alleviate the lack of clean drinking water in the communities and to provide sanitation facilities.
One of the goals of this project is to provide clean drinking water to marginalized, vulnerable communities. Foni has many isolated villages that feel abandoned and forgotten. This project has made them feel heard, socially included and a part of humanity. For the villages that are close to the border, most of the time they felt abandoned due to fear as they are closer to the front line.
The project also empowers women and girls. We all know the burden that women and girls carry in collecting water. Statistics show that Foni has one of the lowest rates of female enrollment in schools. This clean water project will enable girls to attend school. The time spent collecting water will now be much shorter for girls in school. It will also help increase refugee children’s enrollment in school instead of being used for water collection.
Another important goal of this project is to inculcate the habit of handwashing in the communities. At each of the rehabilitated water sources in each community, a handwashing station is provided with detergent and a learning session on the techniques of effective handwashing. Community members gather in the village square for the learning sessions. This is a tool to combat the spread of germs and other communicable diseases that can spread within communities, especially after using toilets. It also helps breastfeeding mothers and children understand the importance of hygiene and sanitation. Attendance at the training sessions was high. Community involvement was immense and enthusiastic.
In the Fonis, open defecation is not as much of a problem as it is in other parts of the country. However, another important goal of these water projects is to provide households with 24-hour access to water. This will discourage people from going outside to defecate. Household water availability is a catalyst for ending open defecation.
Another focus of these projects is to encourage women’s involvement in home gardening. Each rehabilitated water source includes a concrete watering trough. The trough collects wastewater from the hand pump and can be used by nearby houses for small-scale home gardening. This avoids wasting water and allows households to grow vegetables and provide drinking water for their livestock. This helps provide households with a balanced diet and alleviates the extreme poverty that communities face, especially during the dry season.
Another aim of this project is to reduce the high rate of waterborne diseases in the beneficiary communities. Children often bear the brunt of waterborne diseases. Some households are deprived of all resources when waterborne diseases strike a family. These water projects will ease the burden on the communities, and money that would otherwise be spent on doctors or medicine can instead be used for food or girls’ education.
Another important objective of the project was to establish and train village water management committees. We established and trained water management committees in all project communities. They help with the day-to-day management and maintenance of the water source. This helps to make the project sustainable. As a best practice, we ensure that the committee is gender balanced and that women have a say in the maintenance and management of the water source. Traditional women communicators, known as ‘Kanyeleng’, are also involved in sensitizing communities to better water management.
JAKOI BINTANG VILLAGE
Childern eager to get to the handpump and get water
Leading by example as the community leader demonstrates how to do proper hand washing
Broad smiles while water flows nicely in the community
The experience and technicality of works is essential in our projects
The strength and commitment to get work done and provide clean drinking water for communities is the ultimate goal
Dismantling the conversion head and pedestal
BENEFICIARY TESTIMONIAL
As it has always been after the conclusion of all our projects, traditional and cultural leaders as well as village women committees, youth and members of the beneficiary villages took turns to heap gratitude and delight over the projects.
Similarly, with Foni Bintang Karenai District, all the village leaders of the respective 5 villages expressed their sincere thanks for the project and happiness, highlighting the positive impact that these clean water projects have in their lives., the local councilor of the district Yuba Jarju mentioned the great importance of these water projects in communities. This will help us stay healthy, as clean drinking water is the key to human life he said. He also mentioned the social and economic importance of the water projects, as well as the tremendous importance of clean drinking water for the communities, especially in relation to the provision of education and increased well-being. This is indeed joyful for the district said Kajally Bojang another cultural leader of the district. We have long suffered to get clean drinking water. Thank you for these projects. We will forever remain grateful to you. Similar remarks were said by other notable social and cultural figures within the beneficiary communities. Women’s group leaders also emphasized their happiness and gratitude towards the project. We wake up as early as 5 AM at times to go for water collection. We have suffered a lot due to lack of water, but this project has wiped away our tears. We are now celebrating success thanks to Water Charity, said Olimatou Colley traditional women mobilizer for the district. Community members from the isolated settlement of Kangdongku also expressed their utmost gratitude and thanks for the project. We have been forgotten a lot but now we feel alive thanks to this project. Our families can thrive, says Piere Gomez.
The traditional Chief of the district Alfusainey Jarju advised people to unite and collectively safeguard the successful sustainability of the water sources. Now that there is ample clean drinking water flowing in the 5 communities, thanks to Water Charity. He urged for the effective protection and proper management of the water sources. He also tasked the village development committees of the beneficiary communities to work closely with village water management committees for the sustainability of the projects. We all know the hardship we faced with the lack of water, this means we should work hard to collectively protect and safeguard the recently concluded projects. He thanks Water Charity for the projects.
Thanks to the donors for making this project a success.
KANGDONGKU VILLAGE
Women in the community are delightful with the clean water projects. They face the brunt of water collection in households
Water quality testing after completion of works is an important pillar in our projects
Dismantling the handpump
Work in progress
The old conversion head
This project has been completed. To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.
The Karuk Tribe is a Native American tribe located in northern California, primarily in the Klamath River region. They are one of several indigenous groups in the state of California and have a rich cultural heritage and history. The Karuk Tribe’s traditional territory encompasses parts of northern California, including Humboldt County, Siskiyou County, and Trinity County. The Klamath River and its tributaries are central to their homeland. The Karuk Tribe, like many Native American communities, faces contemporary challenges such as healthcare, education, economic development, and maintaining their cultural traditions in the modern world. The Orleans Community Service District has issued a BOIL WATER advisory and it is in effect until further notice.
Water Charity sent a large number of Sawyer hollow membrane filters to the Karuk Tribe in March of 2023. Water Charity has been working with the Yurok Tribe on a similar program, to view the details CLICK HERE.
We have arranged for the distribution of 270 water filters through the Office of Emergency Services. Orleans continues to be on a Boil Notice which has been ongoing for quite some time. Notices went out to Tribal members in the Orleans with assistance to install the filters with the households currently dealing with “boil water notices.” We demonstrated the proper use of the filters and ensure that they are maintained. With a small amount of back flushing, these filters can last nearly forever. The Karuk Orleans Health Clinic was the main distribution point for filters that Tribal Elders, Tribal Members, and Community could pick up. Fact sheets and instructions were also given out.
Project Manager:
Darrell Frost, Emergency Manager, Karuk Tribe
Distribution Points:
Orleans Medical Clinic
Happy Camp Senior Nutrition Center
Office of Emergency Services
Karuk Tribal Reunion
Project impact:
This project has impacted 270 households – Approximately 500-550 people.
Outcomes:
The tribal lands and communities have been ravaged by wildfires over several years with significant damage to our watersheds causing significant issues with water resources in our communities.
On May 28th 2023, their main water systems were overrun by flash floods and slides that went in the main source of water for the Happy Camp area. Citizens were given notice to boil water until further notice. Water in their homes was brown and unusable. During the next month and a half, Water Charity was able to distribute bottled water and water filters.
There were very little issues other than distribution was slower than expected. We were able to overcome this by getting the word out through flyers and social media.
Current Status:
Orleans community is still under a water boil notice.
Happy Camp’s water boil notice was lifted on June 24th, 2023.
The funds for this project has been advanced by Water Charity. This project has been completed. All the filters have been distributed. But boil water notices continue on the Klamath and the neighboring tribes are still in need of better water. We are still raising funds to expand this work to all of these tribes! Kindly make your contributions/donations using the donate button below:
Note:
We are thankful to our Tribal Council for their assistance with this grant and want to thank Water Charity for their commitment to helping Native American Tribal Nations. It was a lifesaver, and we are grateful to have been able to provide for our tribal communities.
This project has been completed. To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.
The availability of clean water is considered a basic human right, yet in many places, including the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), access to clean water remains a significant challenge. More than one billion people in developing regions still lack access to safe water sources, leading to severe health issues. Every year, 2-3 million children under the age of five die due to diarrheal diseases, often contracted from contaminated water sources, with nearly 90 percent of these fatalities occurring among young children. Shockingly, an estimated 4,500 to 6,000 children perish daily due to water-related diseases. The World Health Organization reports that approximately half of the developing world’s population is affected by six major diseases related to inadequate water supply and sanitation: diarrhoea, ascaris, dracunculiasis, hookworm, schistosomiasis, and trachoma. Nearly half of the people in the Marshall Islands are at risk of consuming contaminated water, affecting around 20,000 individuals. While some have access to improved water sources, only 58.8% of households employ proper water treatment methods, leaving the remaining 41.2% vulnerable to waterborne diseases.
The Marshall Islands face a critical shortage of fresh water, with a majority of households (about 79%) relying on rainwater catchments for drinking water. This means that roughly 80% of the total population, or approximately 42,854 individuals, heavily depend on collected rainwater for their water needs. Sadly, island water sources suffer from bacterial pollution, as evidenced by samples from Majuro’s water company piping system showing contamination by total coliform and E. coli, both resulting from human and animal waste, leading to illnesses. Astonishingly, household water sources exhibit similar levels of contamination as urban areas, contributing to the increasing prevalence of waterborne diseases. Gastroenteritis ranks as the third most common cause of hospitalization among children under 5 years old in the Marshall Islands, with one in three Marshallese children experiencing stunted growth. Diarrhoea and intestinal parasites play a significant role in childhood malnutrition by reducing food intake, impairing nutrient absorption, causing direct nutrient loss, and weakening the immune system. Climate change exacerbates these challenges, with the Marshall Islands experiencing more frequent freshwater crises, including severe droughts in 2013 and 2016, where some individuals survived on less than a liter of water per person per day.
Project Details
The objective of this project is to identify sustainable and socially viable solutions to address the problems associated with contaminated water. Various purification methods such as chlorination, distillation, boiling, sedimentation, and high-tech filters have been employed, but they encounter obstacles like high costs, maintenance requirements, reliance on fossil fuels, and long waiting periods. Our proposed solution involves distributing an affordable and effective water filter, the Sawyer One Point System, which operates without electricity and is both sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Phase I of the project positively impacted nearly 14,000 people across 21 of the 23 inhabited atolls in the RMI, excluding Majuro and Ebeye. Phase II extended its reach to 33,000 residents in the urban centers of Majuro and Ebeye. This initiative aims to reduce waterborne diseases stemming from unsafe water and water scarcity, including scabies, diarrhea, and typhoid, while also addressing water quality issues. It aligns with national frameworks and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Project Summary
Regarding project implementation, the Marshall Islands consist of 7,738 households, with over half residing in Majuro and Ebeye. Phase I prioritized the 22 outer island communities, focusing on the most vulnerable populations. Phase II expanded its efforts to Majuro and Ebeye, reaching 33,000 more individuals.
Water Charity collaborated with the KIO, the national government, local community leaders, and organizations to identify families in need of clean water filters. Recipients were educated on the importance of safe drinking water and proper hygiene, and the filters were installed with the help of various stakeholders. Ongoing costs were minimal, with local authorities and recipients entrusted with the long-term maintenance of the filters. The project aims to distribute filters to every household in need in the Marshall Islands.
In February 2023, the project – Water is Life! successfully conducted water filter awareness consultations on Ebeye, distributing tap filters and bucket filters to households, churches, and schools. The initiative reached various communities, and follow-up surveys are planned to assess the effectiveness of the filters. The project is on the verge of providing 100% access to clean and safe water in the Marshall Islands.
Phase II, spanning from 2021 to 2023, targeted urban households in Majuro and Ebeye, distributing 900 filter systems on Ebeye and 3,968 filters on Majuro. Initial funding of $15,000 from Water Charity, facilitated this phase. Majuro Do it Best Company shipped filters from the U.S. mainland to Majuro and Ebeye Island. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health and Human Services provided additional funding to cover travel expenses for members to travel from Majuro to Ebeye. Faucet filters were chosen for Ebeye, as most homes had access to household faucet systems. Training workshops and assistance with water filter distribution were conducted on the ground.
In Majuro, filter distribution began in Laura Village, extending to Rita, Delap, and Jenrok communities, with nearly 3,000 filters distributed to households by mid-July 2023. The project held a dinner event to acknowledge the collective efforts of those involved in ensuring access to clean and safe water for all communities in the Marshall Islands.
As of July 2023, Phase II has distributed an additional 5,000 water filters to urban households on Ebeye and Majuro, benefiting 33,000 more Marshallese individuals. Since the inception of the Dren In Mour project in 2018, nearly 8,000 water filters have been distributed across all communities in the Marshall Islands, fulfilling the goal of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 on water. The project’s success has been made possible through collaboration and commitment from various project partners.
Phase III, planned for 2023-2024, aims to improve drinking water systems in public schools in the Marshall Islands, furthering the mission of providing clean and safe water to all residents. Despite significant infrastructure improvements in public schools, many still lack adequate access to safe drinking water.
Beneficiary Testimonials
Ronnie Lia Graham mentioned “It’s dry in Rearlaplap now and this filter is saving lives….I drank coconut and waini for 3 days coz of no water in the house I stay at. That bucket with filter works! Wish I had my iPad with me to take pics.”
Ekta Madan said “I am highly motivated to present my testimony of this filter before all of you and how it has changed my life. Earlier I used to fetch water from town to my place of stay in Rairok which was really cumbersome and expensive too including the taxi fare. I had to find out ways every week to have safe storage of water for my domestic use. It was a life-changing moment for me few weeks ago when I was introduced to this new tap filter by Ms Monique Strauss. The problem of purchasing filtered water bottles no longer exists I am using this safe small filter every day to fill my water from my catchment on a regular basis. So far I have not found any physical illness due to consumption of water using this filter but I feel more empowered as it saves my time, money and efforts to spend on drinking water which is our natural resource. DREN IN MOUR. Thanks to all the project people for providing this valuable filter to all people in Majuro.”
Molly Murphy stated “The Water is Life project is hands down one of the most valuable projects implemented in our communities and we at MIEPI feel privileged to have been able to provide some support. I for one am a recipient of the water filter distributed here in Ajeltake. The filter has improved life for my family in many ways. We no longer need to haul heavy water jugs between Ajetake and town just so we can access clean drinking water. It has also saved us money.”
We gave clean water to an entire small island today in the Marshall Islands! We’re about to reach the finish line of border to border clean water!
The finish line recipients for border-to-border clean water in the Marshall Islands!
A little girl who is eager to learn how to use filters.
Training people on effective use of water filters.
Water filter Distribution.
Hands-on practice to use filters.
It’s easy to clean filters for the long run.
The funds for this program have been advanced by Water Charity. Your donation using the Donate button will ensure that we have funds available to accomplish this project. Kindly donate using the button.
This project has been completed. To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.
#WaterisLife! One of the last recipients of clean drinking water in The Marshall Islands
PROJECT TITLE: ROUND 2 (10 BOREHOLE CONSTRUCTION) -BUSOGA REGION BORE HOLE PROGRAM
NUMBER OF BENEFICIARIES: OVER 10274 PEOPLE, THE ELDERLY, YOUNG MOTHERS AND CHILDREN
ESTIMATED STARTING DATE: August / 2023 PROJECT DURATION: 5 WEEKS
The challenges faced by the villages of Bukyaye A & Bukaye B, Busowobi, Bubaka A, Butokolo, Bukaye A, Bunyama, Bukyoyo, BuwogoA and Ntinda in Busoga Region in accessing clean and safe water sources are significant and have far-reaching implications for the well-being and development of the communities living in these areas. The situation described in these villages is indeed worrying and it is commendable that there is a plan to address the water crisis in these communities. Access to clean and safe water is not only a basic human right, but also a crucial factor in improving the health, education and economic opportunities of the people living in these areas.
The project plan is to provide each village with a man-dug borehole as a positive step towards sustainable access to clean water. Boreholes can tap into underground water sources and provide a reliable supply of potable water, which can significantly reduce water-borne diseases and improve overall hygiene conditions. In addition, as a man-dug solution, it can be more accessible and cost-effective for these communities, ensuring the long-term viability of the project.
The timeframe of approximately 4-5 weeks to implement this solution is relatively short, indicating a sense of urgency to address the problem. However, it’s essential that the construction and implementation process is carried out with careful planning, engineering expertise and community involvement to ensure a successful and lasting impact.
