In South Sudan, access to safe water has long been a pressing issue, exacerbating health risks for families who rely on contaminated water sources. However, amidst these challenges, a recent initiative in Pieri, located in Jonglei’s Uror County, is offering a glimmer of hope for approximately 6,000 households and 37,000 internally displaced persons in the area.
Funded by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and handed over to the community, a solar-powered water facility is set to address the dire water needs of the population. Geetha Pious, Head of UNMISS’s Field Office in Bor, expressed the mission’s commitment to supporting impactful projects like this one, aiming to improve the lives of as many people as possible and facilitate the reintegration of displaced individuals.
The installation of the water facility is poised to significantly alleviate the burden on women and children, who traditionally bear the responsibility of fetching water from distant sources. Nyagou Pay Ka shared the challenges faced by women in the community, highlighting the long and perilous journey of more than 13 kilometers to collect water, often resulting in exposure to attacks and violence.
With the introduction of the solar-powered water facility, residents like Nyamal Gadet Machar are hopeful for a brighter future. Not only will it save time previously spent on water collection, but it will also enable children to attend school instead of assisting with water-carrying duties.
Implemented by Impact Actions, a national non-governmental organization, the project underscores the collaborative efforts to address critical needs and enhance the quality of life for communities in South Sudan.
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