The Power of Water -

A dispatch for World Water Day

By Nabeeha Shah

Water makes the world go round

World Water Day focuses on the importance of clean water for all. According to the United Nations, 2.2 billion people around the world are living without access to safe water. This year, the focus is on groundwater – water we use for drinking, sanitation, food production, and industrial processes. Some areas in the world rely entirely on groundwater for their livelihoods. Safe water allows a mother to feed her child. To quench their thirst. It could mean the difference between life and death.

To quench their thirst. It could mean the difference between life and death.

Humanity in Crisis

The water crisis plays into the cycle of poverty. Women and girls are disproportionately affected by the water crisis as they often carry the burden of collecting water for their families. This leaves little time for them to prioritize things like work and school. In addition, children are more susceptible to diseases caused by contaminated water, affecting their ability to go to school.

In addition, children are more susceptible to diseases caused by contaminated water, affecting their ability to go to school.

Access to clean water can change everything. Children, specifically young girls once burdened by the responsibility of gathering water, are healthier and able to go to school. Parents can focus on their livelihoods and generating income rather than worrying whether or not they have safe water. And communities don’t have to fight for access to basic human needs.

The Power of Water

A world free of poverty, that is our vision at Islamic Relief – and access to clean water is a stepping-stone in achieving it. That’s why in countries across the world, we ensure communities have a sustainable source of clean water for years to come. Our water projects aim to rebuild community infrastructure through interventions like solar-powered water resources and raising awareness on general best practices regarding sanitation and hygiene. In Kone Beri, Niger, the construction of water tanks have made all the difference for eager young students. It gave them the ability to learn without the worry of getting sick from their school’s drinking fountains. Brilliant young girls, like Nabilah, whose commute was extended by hours due to water inaccessibility, are now flourishing. She was given the opportunity to focus her attention on her education, and is even on the hygiene committee at her school! The power of water is immeasurable. It can save lives. And together, we can help turn this basic human need into a human right!