Only 62 percent of rural Senegalese have access to safe water. Even in areas where the supply of water is plentiful, waterways, wells, storage tanks, and piping systems are often contaminated.
In 2012, Water Charity recognized the evolving technology becoming available to purify contaminated water, and started the Filters for Life Program – Worldwide. The program uses the Sawyer filter technology, involving carbon nanotubes to remove all known pathogens, bacteria, cysts, protozoa, and even the smallest viruses. All Sawyer Hollow Fiber Membrane filters are small, portable, easy-to-use, reliable, inexpensive, and can last a lifetime without needing to be replaced.
The filters can be set up in a matter of seconds. They have a high flow rate, eliminating the need to store water, reducing the chances of water being contaminated after it is filtered.
The efficacy of the technology has been shown in various locations, including in the recently completed Water Charity Typhoon Haiyan Relief – Philippines, and is currently also being deployed by Water Charity in Guatemala and the Dominican Republic.
In partnership with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Peace Corps Senegal, this new program is to assemble and deliver 50 Sawyer PointONE filters throughout Senegal for use in public areas, including clinics, schools, and community centers. If an average of 20 people use the filters, 1,000 people will have access to clean water.
Beneficiaries will be trained in the use and maintenance of the filters, as well as other aspects of hygiene and sanitation. Follow-up visits will ensure that the filters are being used and maintained properly and will be utilized to evaluate the health benefits that have been achieved.
To donate for this high-impact and cost-effective project, click on the Donate button below.
This project has been finished. To read about the conclusion of the project, CLICK HERE.