The UN states, "access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene is the most basic need for health and wellbeing." In 2023, WHO reported that 21 million Afghans, half the population, do not have access to clean water. AAFF responds to this need by partnering with Afghan communities to provide wells and water storage systems in their communities. Since 2007, AAFF has completed over 460 clean water systems. We plan to provide 7 Afghan communities access to clean water systems in 2024.
Most Afghans must collect water outside their homes requiring long walks carrying heavy containers in extreme temperatures. Often the nearest water source, such as a shallow well or stream, could be contaminated or polluted. About half of the deaths of Afghan children under the age of 5 are from water-born diseases. Children often collect water for their families. This time consuming responsibility can keep children from attending school and puts girls at risk of violence on the long walk.
AAFF partners with Afghan communities to provide wells and water storage systems to Afghan communities that lack access to clean water. Hand pump wells are placed within communities that are a short walking distance from most homes. Water levels at each location are tested to ensure wells reach the proper depth for safe drinking water. Each well serves several hundred families, which means these families have easily accessible, clean water that positively impacts their health and wellbeing.
Access to clean water within a short walking distance from home decreases the amount of water-born diseases and children's death, and increases hygiene, which prevents the spread of infectious diseases. Children's improved health and decreased time collecting water will increase school attendance. Spending less time collecting water will increase productivity and safety. This has a long-term impact on society as children are able to complete their education and enhance their lives.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
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