A community transformed by water
In recent years Ethiopia has experienced both drought and flood emergencies, which, coupled with conflict, have made it harder and harder for communities to cope. But communities in water-stressed regions are experiencing restored hope and health, as they tackle these challenges with support from Tearfund’s long-term partner, Ethiopian Kale Heywet Church Development Commission (EKHCDC).
Access to clean water and sanitation is among the most urgent health crises facing communities around the world. In recent years Ethiopia has experienced both drought and flood emergencies, which, coupled with conflict, have made it harder and harder for communities to cope.
But communities in water-stressed regions are experiencing restored hope and health, as they tackle these challenges with support from Tearfund’s long-term partner, Ethiopian Kale Heywet Church Development Commission (EKHCDC).
Earlier this year, we put the challenge to the Tearfund community: help 11,000 people access safe water through our Water Relief Appeal. Together, we raised over $200,000 to support water and sanitation projects with our partners around the world, including EKHCDC. Read on to learn how transformation is springing up for individuals, households and entire communities through improved access to safe water in southern Ethiopia.
The sun is hot, the work is hard – but hope is stronger. In Lock Abaya, men from the community are digging 1.3 kilometres of trench that will soon carry clean water into their village. This labour is their proud contribution to a project supported by EKHCDC and overseen by government technicians. Once complete, it will serve hundreds of families.
The pipeline is only the beginning. The community will also receive hygiene training, and a water committee will be formed and equipped to keep the new supply running smoothly for years to come.
In nearby Boricha district, Mimi and her family are leading a quiet revolution. Recognised as a ‘model household,’ they are inspiring neighbours to embrace cleaner, healthier living. Since learning from EKHCDC about hygiene and sanitation, Mimi has been showing others how to safely store water, wash hands effectively, and keep homes and toilets clean.
Health workers trained by EKHCDC regularly visit her home – offering guidance, encouragement, and sometimes bringing Mimi along as an example when visiting other families. Her commitment is transforming not just her home, but her whole neighbourhood.
In the heart of Zeritu Asefa’s village in Lock Abaya, a once-forgotten hand pump is flowing again – bringing life and health to 90 families. After faithfully serving the community for over 13 years, the borehole pump broke down and sat idle for three long years. Families were forced to fetch water from unprotected springs or buy it from vendors – neither safe nor sustainable.
That changed when EKHCDC identified the village as a priority for restoration. Now repaired, the pump is back in action and Zeritu can collect clean water just five minutes from home, twice a day. A new community water management committee is collecting small, affordable fees to maintain the pump, with EKHCDC providing training so the water source can be protected for years to come.
Give a family or community the gift of safe water or sanitation for a healthy life.
Related projects have received support from the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).
