Access to clean water is something many of us take for granted. We turn on our taps, and fresh, safe water flows effortlessly. Yet, for millions in Sub-Saharan Africa, clean water is a luxury they cannot afford. At Innovation: Africa, we’re committed to changing this reality. Here are five shocking facts about the water crisis in Africa and how we’re addressing them to bring clean water to those in need.
1. Lack of Access to Clean Water
A woman from Isari Village, Tanzania fills a pail with dirty water, as her community has no access to clean water.
Did you know that more than half of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa lacks access to clean drinking water? That’s a staggering number—over 400 million people, which is more than the combined populations of the United States and Canada. Climate change and severe droughts exacerbate this crisis, making clean water even more scarce. For these communities, the absence of clean water isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a daily struggle for survival.
The good news is that Africa’s underground aquifers are vast and abundant. Innovation: Africa uses solar technology to tap into these reserves, pumping more than 8 million liters of water every day to communities in need. By donating to African charities like Innovation: Africa, you are helping to bring life-saving water to those who need it most.
2. Child Mortality
A boy from Pomla Hamayero Village, Cameroon drinks from a local water source, which is dirty and contaminated, exposing him to numerous health risks.
The water crisis isn’t just about access—it’s about life and death. Every day, around 500 children under the age of five die in Africa due to poor water, sanitation, and hygiene, according to UNICEF. Imagine a jumbo jet filled with young passengers crashing every single day. That’s the equivalent of the child mortality rate due to unsafe water in Africa.
To combat this, Innovation: Africa takes a holistic approach that goes beyond just providing water. We hire and train local villagers as water technicians—about 10 for every project—equipping them with skills that last a lifetime. This not only ensures that the water systems are maintained but also creates job opportunities within the community, helping to improve overall economic stability.
3. Daily Water Collection
A group of women from Chipendo Village, Malawi make the daily journey to fetch water, carrying pails on their heads that weigh approximately 20 kilograms (44 pounds) each.
For many in Sub-Saharan Africa, collecting water is a daily burden that falls primarily on women and children. They often walk up to 12 kilometers each day to fetch water, which is not even safe to drink. To put this into perspective, that’s roughly the equivalent of walking across the length of 110 Olympic-sized swimming pools. This grueling task consumes hours of their day, time that could be spent in school or earning an income.
Innovation: Africa’s projects aim to empower local communities by involving them in every step of the process. Villages form water committees, sign contracts, and participate in the construction and maintenance of their water systems. This sense of ownership not only reduces the distance needed to collect water but also fosters a strong commitment to maintaining these vital resources.
4. Cholera Outbreak
The cholera outbreak currently ravaging East and Southern Africa is the worst in over a decade. Cholera is a fast-acting, deadly disease that can cause death within hours if untreated. The outbreak is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of inadequate water and sanitation.
Innovation: Africa’s local teams, consisting primarily of African engineers, work closely with each community to ensure the success and sustainability of our water projects. By providing clean, safe water and ensuring that communities have the knowledge and resources to maintain their water systems, we are actively helping to prevent cholera and other waterborne diseases.
5. Economic Impact of Clean Water
Children from Manga Village, Zambia celebrate the arrival of clean, fresh water from the new tap installed by Innovation: Africa.
Clean water does more than just save lives—it drives economic growth. According to the World Health Organization, every $1 spent on water and sanitation can bring an economic return of $3 to $34. Clean water allows for the irrigation of crops, improves health, reduces healthcare costs, and increases productivity.
At Innovation: Africa, we ensure that 100% of every donation goes directly towards bringing clean water to those in need because our overheads are covered by private donors. Just $10 a month can provide clean water to a family for life. This affordable impact not only transforms lives but also contributes to the long-term economic development of the communities we serve.
(Read more: How Clean Water Sparked a Zambian Woman’s Thriving Chicken Business)
Together, We Can Make Waves – Donate for Water in Africa
The water crisis in Africa is a fight we can win, but we can’t do it alone. At Innovation: Africa, we’re committed to bringing clean water to every corner of rural Africa. With your help, we can make this vision a reality. Donate today, spread the word, and be part of the movement to end the water crisis in Africa.
Ready to make a change? Explore our website to learn more about our work, track live projects, and see how your donations make a difference. Together, we can turn the tide on the water crisis in Africa.