Families in Kagarama village in northern Rwanda spend several hours every day collecting unsafe water from distant natural springs. Children often carry heavy water containers before and after school, while elderly people and vulnerable households face even greater challenges. The daily effort of water collection takes time away from education, work and rest.
Safe water does not only change a day. It changes a future.
The walk to the water source can take up to one hour each way. The paths are steep, muddy and difficult, especially when it rains. After dark, they can also be dangerous. And darkness comes early.
In many families, it is children and women who carry this responsibility. Some children start collecting water from the age of six. They may have to fetch water once before school and once again after school. This means running home after class, just to have enough time before night falls.
When there is no safe water close to home, the problem does not stop there. Families also need firewood to boil the water. If there is no wood, the water may be used without being made safe, increasing the risk of illness.
The project will install rainwater harvesting systems for 133 households, directly benefiting approximately 600 people. The project is developed together with local residents and organizations to ensure long-term sustainability and local ownership.