Building the Largest Community Rainwater Reservoir in East Sumba
Over two months of determination, engineering excellence, and community unity
In early June 2025, a groundbreaking initiative began in Laindatang: the creation of a semi-underground rainwater reservoir with a vast capacity of 115,000 litres. Spurred by last year’s failed water drilling attempt in one of East Sumba’s driest regions, this endeavour was nothing short of monumental. Just over two months later, by 12 August, the reservoir was completed—an engineering and humanitarian triumph despite the absence of water, electricity, and accessible roads.
Technically, the reservoir is remarkable. It stands as a testament to design ingenuity, featuring a massive, airtight, fully enclosed structure. Rainwater, once collected, undergoes triple filtration through an innovative system we developed and installed. Its complete airtightness and 90% underground placement protect the water from contamination and maintain a naturally cool temperature. Inside, no fewer than six protective layers—including a Sika membrane lining the entire floor and walls—ensure the highest sanitary standards for stored water.
The commitment required for this project began long before the groundbreaking. Months were dedicated to meticulous technical planning, community consultation, and raising nearly 300 million IDR in funding. Construction was entrusted to our trusted associates, Mr. Santoso and Mr. Budi from Gnade in Waingapu. Their expertise and generosity—working at cost price—significantly reduced the project’s financial burden.
For the Fair Future Foundation and Kawan Baik Indonesia teams, this was more than construction—it was life lived on site. Every day, we dug into the earth, manoeuvred heavy materials over treacherous terrain, endured strong winds and cold nights, and shared simple but nourishing meals with the workers from Java and the local community. Together, we built not only a reservoir but also bonds of friendship, shared learning, and resilience.
When the rainy season arrives in October–November, the reservoir will fill in about 20 days, providing a vital reserve during severe water shortages. Alongside the smaller ferro-cement tanks built across the village—each equipped with the same filtration system—this structure will help prevent waterborne diseases, reduce dehydration, and enable children to attend school instead of walking for hours in search of water.
This achievement also bears the signature of Swiss expertise. Precision, high standards, and an unwavering commitment to quality are part of our DNA, guiding every step of this project to ensure it will serve the community for generations to come.
To all who contributed—the engineers, workers, villagers, Javanese friends, partners, and supporters near and far—thank you. Today, Laindatang can face the dry months with dignity and security. This is your project as much as it is ours, and together, we have built more than a reservoir: we have built a future.
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 – August the 12th, 2025
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