Portable Water
Access to clean water remains one of the most pressing challenges faced by many rural communities across Nigeria. In one such community, children must walk nearly 8 kilometres (a return journey) each day to fetch water from a local stream — a source that is far from safe. This stream, while vital, is used by residents upstream for bathing, washing laundry, and often contaminated by domestic and agricultural waste, making the water hazardous for human consumption.
Recognizing this urgent need, our non-profit organization has launched a solar-powered borehole project aimed at providing reliable and safe potable water directly within the heart of the community.
Bringing Clean Water Closer: A Solar-Powered Borehole Project for Rural Nigeria
Support from local communities
From the project's conception, community involvement has been critical. The selected community has rallied behind the initiative, offering local labour, land, and logistical support. Village elders and youth groups alike expressed their commitment to protecting and maintaining the infrastructure once in place.
Their shared stories of hardship—especially the plight of schoolchildren who must choose between water and education—underscored the urgency and importance of the project. The community’s support has been instrumental in facilitating logistics and securing a safe location for drilling.
The Vision: A Tap of Hope in The Community Household
The successful implementation of this project will lead to:
A fully functional borehole equipped with a solar-powered pump, ensuring clean water access year-round.
Strategically placed public tap stations that eliminate long treks to distant water sources.
A significant reduction in waterborne diseases, improving community health and reducing the burden on local health facilities.
Improved school attendance and participation, especially among girls.
Empowerment of local residents through hygiene education and maintenance training, promoting ownership and sustainability.
This is more than just a water project—it’s a lifeline, a catalyst for growth, and a pathway to dignity. With clean water flowing just steps away from their homes, the community will finally be able to live healthier, study harder, and dream bigger.
About the project
Understanding the Problem: A Deep Dive into the Community’s Struggle
The first step in our mission was understanding the realities on the ground. In this village, the daily water-fetching routine takes a heavy toll—particularly on women and children, who bear the responsibility. Beyond the physical burden, the community faces severe health risks from waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. Lack of access to clean water also affects school attendance, economic productivity, and general quality of life.
Our field assessments included:
Interviews with local families, especially mothers and school-aged children.
Water quality tests at the current stream source.
Collaboration with local leaders to identify sustainable alternatives.
This foundational understanding shaped the design of a solar-powered borehole system—a renewable, low-maintenance solution perfectly suited for off-grid rural communities.
