Access to Water: A Source of Hope and Stability in Burkina

Forced to flee her home due to insecurity, like so many others, Djawrata now endures tough living conditions at the Pafadnam site for internally displaced persons in the village of Louda.

"At the site where we live, there was only one manual pump for all the families. The water supply was insufficient to meet our daily needs. When the pump broke down, we had to buy water from a reservoir outside the site, paying 25 Fcfa for two jerrycans."

In response to the situation, World Vision stepped in to enhance access to drinking water at the site. Utilizing a solar-powered water pumping system with a 10m³ capacity, which supplies two water points close to the shelters, the living conditions of the displaced individuals have significantly improved.

"Since this water point was installed just a few metres from my home, my life has changed. I can now access water more easily for drinking, cooking, and other household tasks. This frees up time for me to sell condiments at the market and collect firewood for cooking. Now, when my children return from school, they find their meal already prepared."

Ferdinand Sawadogo, WASH Manager at World Vision, explains:

"In 2022, we installed a manual borehole to meet the needs of the site’s residents. However, due to high demand, this pump was no longer sufficient. With support from the water authority of North - Centre Region, we set up a solar-powered system that now supplies around 2,000 people at the site. This initiative has reduced waiting times and allowed women to focus on other essential activities."

A management committee, composed of community members, has been established to ensure the proper functioning and maintenance of the infrastructure. Awareness sessions on good hygiene practices are also organised to prevent waterborne diseases.

On the occasion of World Water Day 2025, Ferdinand Sawadogo delivers a powerful message:

"The need for water remains immense on the ground. We call on all partners to step up their efforts to guarantee universal access to safe drinking water. At World Vision, we are currently working on our WASH Strategic Plan 2026-2030, which aims to provide adaptive WASH solutions that transform communities and create pathways out of poverty."

Thanks to these initiatives, Djawrata and many other families have regained stability and hope. Access to clean water is not just a vital necessity; it is also a driver of autonomy and dignity for vulnerable communities.