Hope Begins with Water

In southwest Uganda 15-year-old Mbabazi is settling into her first year of high school. Thanks to support from CWS last year, the CCS was able to build her family a new ferrocement rainwater tank with the help of the community.

Mbabazi won top marks in the Year 7 national primary school exams for her class and a high school scholarship. Without that tank, Mbabazi says she might not have been able to sit her exams at all.

She says the new rainwater tank has saved many hours in her day. Instead of walking long distances to collect water in sometimes dangerous conditions, Mbabazi arrives at school on time and can manage her homework as well as her chores.

This family who lost their father to HIV and AIDS several years ago is flourishing. The children attend school regularly. They have water to drink, for washing and some for their vegetable garden. “We vehemently thank you for this wonderful water tank gift,” says Mbabazi.

CCS forms village associations who manage a savings scheme and provide a support network for the caregivers, many of whom are grandparents. Members save half the costs of the rainwater tank, currently around $316, and CWS covers the rest. Volunteers and staff share knowledge and skills to improve the health and livelihoods of these rural people.

Going to the Kagera river can be very risky for the children whose job it is to collect water. Last month CCS wrote to say 13-year-old Festo was killed by a crocodile. He was one of seven children who had walked down from a remote village in the hills to get water because there was none closer. A large crocodile dragged the boy from the shore and by the time the others had run to the nearest community for help it was too late.

CWS plans to help CCS build another 286 rainwater tanks and assist other partners with better water access. Please support the Water Appeal with your donation or by phoning 0800 74 73 72.

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In Uganda having ready access to rainwater is life enhancing. Credit Rob Wayne from CWS.