With access to water, other improvements become possible

The people of Estie, especially women, have endured a lot.  They were continually affected by lack of access to clean water coupled with poor sanitation and hygiene practices.  This exposed them to various water-borne diseases that affected their health, productivity, economy and even dignity.  

The situation was worse for women and girls – as they are the ones responsible for fetching water, in addition to their numerous activities such as cooking, cleaning, taking care of the family and even farming. Women and girls in Estie used to travel up to four hours and collect 20 - 30 liters of water every day.  This, undoubtedly steals their productive time and ability to earn money.  Lack of access to clean water also poses significant impact on girls’ education.  Because girls are expected to support their mothers on water collection, their chance of going to school was limited; those who go to school mostly reach late or become dropouts.

The members of the water resource administration committee in Angachat are proud to wear distinctive uniforms.

The women’s group in Agachat kebele are leaders in their community. Angachat is one of the kebeles found in Estie woreda. The WASH scheme in Angachat kebele was completed with the full participation of this women’s group established by CARE and the kebele water resource administration committee. The women were involved from site selection all the way through implementation. The women were trained by CARE on construction management and on how to effectively manage their water scheme, especially regarding financial sustainability.

After the training, the women’s group started making monthly contributions of 5 birr per person (about 21 cents) for operation and maintenance of the scheme. When their savings started to grow, the women decided to establish a social fund and provide small loans to group members, to be paid back with 3 percent interest. Members of the group said the social fund increased their unity and cohesion in addition to its support to their economy. Encouraged by their accomplishments, the women purchased uniforms that make them stand out in the community. The outfits are easy to clean and show the change in the members’ personal hygiene management. Furthermore, the women’s group developed bylaws that clearly articulate their short-term and long-term objectives. Among other long-term objectives, the women want to start an animal fattening business, now that they have access to safe water. Very recently, they established a water users association – inviting men in the community to join them. This group has become a role model for other women WASHCo management members, many of whom are following similar paths to improve life in their own community

By Emebet Achenef

Team leader, South Gondar WASH team