We will construct seven ferrocement tanks in Laindatang to provide clean water to isolated families. Three of these are funded, but four are still needed. We require CHF 2,300.- for each tank. Your support guarantees access to clean water for the most remote communities. Donate now and be part of this life-changing project.
“Matawai, The Shades of Water” is now available on the Fair Future Foundation’s YouTube Channel. It illuminates the profound water challenges faced by the communities in East Sumba.
The documentary, spanning 15 minutes, offers a deep dive into the daily struggles of these communities as they tirelessly seek ‘Matawai’—meaning ‘Water Sources’ in the Sumbanese language—showcasing their quest for clean water in a land where it is scarce.
Directed by Indira Larin and produced by Elisa Wettstein under Epi Production, “Matawai” is more than just a film; it is a journey into the heart of East Sumba. The documentary reveals the personal stories and battles the locals face, mainly focusing on women and children who often bear the brunt of this crisis. They trek long distances with empty bottles to find water, illustrating the dire situation that forces them to prioritize basic survival over education and other critical needs.
The film’s evocative score, “Sang Air” (meaning ‘The Water’), composed by the renowned Dialog Dini Hari, enriches the narrative, adding emotional depth and resonance. This soundtrack mirrors the highs and lows of the community’s daily fight for water, enhancing the viewers’ connection to the subject matter.
“Matawai” portrays the harsh realities faced by these rural communities: children navigating rugged terrains to fetch water, families washing dishes with the bit of water they can gather, and the constant struggle against diseases like malaria, dysentery, and cholera, which are prevalent due to the lack of clean water and sanitation.
This powerful documentary also highlights the ongoing efforts of Kawan Baik Indonesia and the Fair Future Foundation, which have joined forces to create sustainable water solutions through the #WaterConnections program. Their work is vital in transforming the lives of East Sumba’s residents, providing them with essential resources and hope for a healthier future.
Through “Matawai, The Shades of Water,” viewers are invited to witness the resilience and strength of East Sumba’s communities. This film not only portrays their journey towards accessing clean water but also calls on the global community to support these efforts to ensure a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
Don’t miss this compelling depiction of the human spirit’s strength and the transformative power of collective action. Watch “Matawai, The Shades of Water” on the Fair Future Foundation’s YouTube Channel and join the movement to change lives in East Sumba.
Alex Wettstein – Fair Future Foundation medico-social camp in East Sumba – Rumah Kambera, Lambanapu – The 8th of Mai 2024.