By Todd Hardesty | Executive Director
Going the "extra mile" in this case means a lot. In an area besieged by floods for over four years, we have become experts at transporting everything through the swamp. Drilling rigs, gravel, cement, pipes. Everything needed to complete a new water well. But this week we crossed into new logistical territory. The water in the swamp has receded. Not enough to go overland but also not deep enough to use an outboard motor. (Five years ago, we could walk here).
We are moving materials to transform two hand pump water wells into water yards with towers and elevated tanks. Once completed each water yard can accommodate 3,000 people daily. It requires tons of material. Heavy steel and iron pipes. Two 5,000-liter water tanks for each water yard. But our boat now is more like a raft. The men moving the materials must push and pull the boat in knee deep water for several miles. It's not easy but it is necessary. It also requires many trips.
This is just one of the hurdles we jump working in one of the most remote areas of Africa in the middle of the continents largest swamp.
Your support of this project is changing the lives of many thousands. Unlike other areas of South Sudan our work is in a roadless region. With the flooding it has meant transport by boat, canoe, or anything that floats in order to reach the most vulnerable and needy populations. So really, this current effort is just a continuation of what we always do. Find a way to provide clean water.
In some cases, we've had to convert existing wells to "flood resilient" wells with elevated platforms. These are at least 3 feet above the ground so that when the flood waters rise the well is still accessible You might wonder how people grow vegetables and fruits in a flooded area? They build dikes around their gardens and move the water out one bucket at a time.
Refugees need clean water, and they need food. This project continues to provide both. We innovate. We use local knowledge. We never give up. Your gift today will bring food and water for the most vulnerable in South Sudan. Thank you for your continued support.
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