Our program of construction for 2018 is now underway  We will initially provide a water supply to 40 villages (over 7000 villagers), most of which are in quite difficult terrain in the north central part of Tigray in northern Ethiopia.
These areas have been historically seriously affected during drought periods. In the great Ethiopian crisis of 1984-85, many of these villages were deserted as populations moved to displaced camps seeking a means to stay

alive. Current community and regional government practices in soil and water conservation and environmental restoration have produced an amazing greening of the countryside. Our support for clean and reliable domestic water supply is a key piece of the survival jigsaw being pieced together.

The hydrogeology of this remote region makes for some uncertainty in the siting of wells. In discussion with international experts who know the region well, we accept that 10% of wells under construction may be abandoned before completion because the water supply is insufficient. WellWishers and our partner The Relief Society of Tigray (REST) guarantee that an alternative well or borehole will be provided, and we build a contingency into our budget for this.
We will also take the opportunity to rehabilitate wells completed in a previous time but no longer in use because they need a new pump or the well deepened to reach water.

Key to the success of the program is local village involvement.

Villagers are engaged in all aspects of construction, and provide all necessary support to visiting technical staff. The Water and Sanitation and Health Committee (WASHCO) – four women and two men – are trained in

all aspects of well maintenance and finances. We are fortunate that over the last two decades this process has become well established and accepted.

We receive no government funding, so the fabulous support of the Australian community, with help from friends in Singapore and the UK, makes all this life-saving work a reality. Thank you!