The lack of safe water is a pressing issue affecting millions of people around the world. According to the World Health Organization, over 2 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water services, and nearly 785 million people do not have basic drinking water services. This crisis leads to severe health problems, economic burdens, and educational disadvantages, particularly in developing regions. Waterborne diseases, such as cholera and dysentery, claim countless lives each year, primarily among children under five. The struggle for clean water is a daily reality for many, necessitating long and often dangerous journeys to collect water that is frequently contaminated.

South Sudan

South Sudan exemplifies the severity of this crisis. Since gaining independence in 2011, the country has faced continuous challenges, including political instability, economic hardship, and natural disasters. Over the past few years, South Sudan has experienced extreme weather patterns, with devastating floods and severe droughts affecting different parts of the country. These climate extremes have compounded the already dire situation, disrupting agriculture, displacing communities, and further diminishing access to clean water.

Floods have inundated vast areas of land, contaminating water sources with silt, debris, and pollutants, making the water unsafe for consumption. These floods have displaced hundreds of thousands of people, forcing them into overcrowded camps where water and sanitation facilities are inadequate. Conversely, during periods of drought, water sources dry up, and communities are left with little to no access to water. The fluctuating conditions make it nearly impossible for South Sudanese people to maintain a stable and safe water supply.

Help Me Help

I have initiated a fundraising campaign to raise money for affordable and simple-to-use water purification equipment that will be distributed by the local Catholic community in South Sudan. The Catholic Church has a longstanding presence in the region, with extensive networks and trusted relationships within local communities, making them well-positioned to effectively distribute and manage the water purification equipment, ensuring it reaches those most in need.

The equipment, provided by a company in the region, offers a cost-effective way to ship the units where they are needed most. This approach not only provides immediate relief by purifying contaminated water and making it safe for drinking, thereby reducing the risk of waterborne diseases, but also supports the long-term health and well-being of these communities. By collaborating with the local Catholic community, we can leverage their knowledge and resources to maximise the impact of this project.

Contact us for further details or make a donation here.