At AquoiSolaire Iwacu, we believe that access to clean water is a cornerstone of healthy, thriving communities. In 2024, we launched a transformative clean water initiative in Kirundo, Burundi, where water scarcity and contamination have long been barriers to health, education, and economic growth.
Our mission was simple yet profound: to provide sustainable clean water access points that empower the people of Kirundo to lead healthier, more productive lives.
Activity Highlights: Bringing Clean Water to Kirundo
1. Community Engagement and Needs Assessment
We began by listening to the voices of the community. Through workshops and surveys, we learned about the water challenges Kirundo’s residents faced:
- Long distances to fetch water, often from unsafe sources.
- High prevalence of waterborne diseases.
- Limited knowledge of sanitation and hygiene practices.
This step allowed us to design solutions that directly addressed their needs.
2. Identifying Sustainable Water Solutions
With the help of hydrological experts, we identified reliable water sources for the community:
- Solar-Powered Boreholes: Leveraging Kirundo’s abundant sunlight, we installed boreholes with solar-powered pumps for an eco-friendly and cost-effective water supply.
- Rainwater Harvesting Systems: In areas with seasonal rainfall, we established rainwater collection and storage units to supplement borehole water
3. Building Infrastructure
We constructed a network of water points, including:
- Boreholes with solar-powered pumping systems.
- Elevated storage tanks to ensure steady water supply.
- Community taps conveniently located near schools, health centers, and marketplaces.
These access points were built to last, using durable materials and ensuring easy maintenance.
4. Training and Capacity Building
Empowering the community was central to our approach. We provided training on:
- Hygiene and Sanitation: Teaching families about safe water handling, handwashing, and proper waste management.
- Water Management: Establishing local water committees to oversee operations, handle repairs, and manage a small fee system for maintenance.
