Empowering Ultra-Rural Communities: Transformative Clean Water Initiatives in East Sumba, Indonesia.
Constructing Reservoirs for Health, Sustainability, and Equality through Ferrocement Innovation.
The construction of clean water reservoirs in the highly rural villages of East Sumba, like here in the Laindatang project, is a crucial step towards improving the living conditions of these communities. This project, carried out in close collaboration with Kawan Baik and residents, embodies Fair Future’s commitment to empowerment and sustainable development.
The absence of electricity and sophisticated tools in these regions has not slowed progress; on the contrary, it has strengthened the synergy between our teams and our communities, where knowledge sharing and mutual learning pave the way for innovative and adapted solutions.
These tanks, made using the ferro-cement technique, can store up to 10,000 litres of water. This initiative goes beyond the simple provision of water; it directly responds to public health problems exacerbated by lack of access to drinking water. Waterborne diseases, such as diarrhoea, malaria, dengue, and polio, pose a constant threat to these populations. Therefore, the sufficient availability of clean water reservoirs constitutes an essential step towards reducing these diseases and infant mortality and improving quality of life.
The Water Connections program is a shining example of what we can achieve together. By integrating villagers into the building and learning process, we build infrastructure and resilient, educated communities ready to take charge of their future.
These moments shared in the field, often accompanied by music and particular attention to healthy eating, strengthen bonds, cultivate hope and demonstrate that change is possible, even in the most challenging conditions. Our action is a call for unity, solidarity, and community commitment. Every reservoir built is a victory against inequalities in access to fundamental resources like water. Together, we can continue to create, learn and move towards a future where every person in every village will have the means to live with dignity and good health.
We cordially invite all captivated by this story to explore our photo gallery, witness this extraordinary effort, and further engage with our mission through our Instagram account.
Alex Wettstein – Fair Future Foundation medico-social camp in East Sumba – Rumah Kambera, Lambanapu – The 22nd of March 2024
