Kindernothilfe
Kindernothilfe e.V. Kindernothilfe e.V.

Water

A global shortage of water

Every day 4,000 children die due to lack of access to clean water and elementary sanitation. They contract diseases from drinking polluted water and lack of hygiene. Kindernothilfe supports the construction of sanitation and water systems. It seeks to make children aware of the health risks involved and how valuable water is as well as how important it is not to waste it.

Region um Cuddalore, Kind in FlüchtlingslagerBoy from India drinking water. Picture: Jens Großmann 
Water is vital. It is what humans need most to survive. However, disease causing agents and chemicals pollute this precious resource. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that each year 1.6 million children die of dysentery. This is usually triggered off by polluted water or lack of lavatories. Substances in water such as fluoride and arsenic inhibit the development of children and can even cause disablement. And - water is getting scarce. By 2025, two in every three people will be living in areas where the water supply is threatened, according to WHO

2.6 Billion people lack appropriate sanitation
The heads of governments aimed very high in their Millennium Development Goals (MDG). By 2015 the number of people without access to clean water and sanitation is to be halved. Since 1992 the situation across the globe has shown a slight improvement. However, progress is very slow and if it continues at the present rate, the goal will not be reached.

Höner ReiseSlum lacking sanitation in Kenia. Picture: Alexandra Höner 
At present 2.6 billion people live without appropriate lavatories and sewerage systems. The situation is especially dramatic in Africa and parts of Asia, despite the fact that a lot could be achieved at very little cost. Access to clean water and simple lavatories alone could reduce child mortality by at least 65%, according to the WHO. By taking the appropriate measures, 470,000 children could be saved each year.

An important aspect in this context is the environmental friendly use of natural resources. Clearing away forests, for example, means that there are not enough trees to hold water, give shade and protection from erosion. Cultivation methods adapted to local conditions and climate that do not leach the soil save water. The contamination of water must be stopped.

What action is Kindernothilfe taking?
In Kindernothilfe projects, water plays a significant number of roles. In community based projects children and adults learn how to use water economically. They also learn to use it sparingly and yet efficiently in cultivating vegetable plots and larger fields. Villagers form water committees to organise the supply and consumption of water. They are supported in this by qualified staff from Kindernothilfe's partners in the field. By constructing irrigation systems and wells Kindernothilfe supports sustainable sources of livelihood.

 

Annual Report 2006 Anual report 2006


Copyright © 2008 Kindernothilfe e.V.
All rights reserve. Disclaimers.