WATER CRISIS
HEALTH CHALLENGE
The majority of diseases in the developing world are caused by the usage of dirty and contaminated water, such as stagnant ponds and polluted rivers. Waterborne diseases and lack of basic sanitation kill more people every year than all forms of violence such as war.
TIME
In Africa, women spend an average of four hours collecting water for their households. They often have to walk nearly 5km to reach water sources, which are usually contaminated. This leaves them with little time for other productive activities that could improve their lives and communities.
EDUCATION
Because children drink water from unsafe and contaminated sources they end up falling sick hence they miss classes in school. The lack of clean water also affects the girl child as they miss school when they are menstruating as they do not have access to clean water.
ILLNESS/DEATH
It is estimated that every 20 seconds a child dies from waterborne diseases. It is also estimated that more children under the age of 5 die from waterborne diseases than from HIV/AIDS, malaria, and measles combined.
WATER CHANGES LIVES
TIME
Proximity of the water source allows women to spend their day providing for their families and boys and girls attend school without wasting time on gathering water for the household.
HEALTH
Pure clean and safe drinking water has health advantages. It helps prevent avoidable illnesses and promotes the habit of cleanliness.
GROWTH
Sustainable access to pure clean water allows people to concentrate on their economic activities; farming, and trading hence improving socio-economic development.
STANDARD OF LIVING
Availability of pure safe and clean water ensures an improved standard of living for current and future generations. It is essential for health, dignity, and economic development.