"Water in Every Village" Project
In the fall of 2023, TreamLift was approached by a U.S.-based foundation whose sole philanthropic interest is to provide clean water and sanitation in developing countries, particularly in Africa. Malawi is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking 174 of 189 countries on the Human Development Index. Over half the population lives in poverty, and one-fifth in extreme poverty. Access to clean water, sanitation and health care remain significant challenges for many Malawians, especially in rural areas.
Expanded conversations with TeamLift; the University of Mzuzu; Lusubilo Community Care Project; and Soils, Foods and Healthy Communities eventually led to the design of the ambitious "Water in Every Village" Project.
The initiative includes three components:
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#1
An initial mapping project managed by Lusubilo Community Care to identify all existing wells in northern Malawi, as well as communities in need of clean water who can benefit from a borehole.
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#2
The digging of boreholes and installation of hand pumps in every village in need of clean water. The "Water in Every Village" initiative will begin in the Karonga District and eventually expand to other Malawi locations.
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#3
On a very limited basis, the installation of a solar-powered irrigation system to provide a consistent water source to community farms.
In September, October and November of 2023 - prior to Malawi's rainy season - TeamLift and its partners are drilling 35 new wells in Karonga District. Village residents at every location are also trained in how to maintain the new well.
Plans are underway to drill additional boreholes in 2024 and beyond until the need for clean water throughout Malawi is met.
Clean Water Drilling
A new borehole creates excitement in a village. Children always come to watch the process.