The project was started to address a critical water crisis in Buyala Village. This remote Ugandan community, with over 5,000 residents, relied on a contaminated open water spring as their primary water source, jeopardizing their health and wellbeing.
The contaminated water posed significant health risks, leading to a surge in waterborne diseases like typhoid, malaria, and diarrhea. Additionally, the long distances residents had to travel to fetch water often resulting in school absenteeism and other social issues.
To address these challenges, FOSCOD, along with our interns and KORD, implemented a project focused on:
- Rehabilitating the water spring: Cleaning and protecting the water source to ensure safe drinking water.
- Establishing a water user committee: Ensuring the water’s sustainability and empowering the community to manage and maintain the water source.
- Promoting hygiene practices: through educational initiatives, including the installation of tippy tap handwashing stations to promote better handwashing practices.
By successfully implementing these initiatives, the rehabilitation of the water spring not only provided immediate access to clean water but also fostered improved health and hygiene practices throughout the village. Clean water access has reduced waterborne diseases, increased school attendance, and empowered the community to take ownership of their water resources.
Through the collaborative efforts of FOSCOD, our interns, and KORD, this project stands as a testament to the power of community-driven solutions. By investing in local needs and empowering residents, we are not just addressing immediate health challenges but also paving the way for a healthier, more resilient community.