DR Congo: A Life Transformed Thanks to Access to Clean Water

By Didier Nagifi, Communications Officer

Suzanne, a mother of six children, lives in the town of Karawa, in the Businga territory, in the North Ubangi province. For years, her family struggled to access clean water. Her 8-year-old son, Fiston, had the opportunity to choose a sponsor through the Chosen initiative, an innovative approach where children select their sponsors. This moment marked a turning point in their lives.

Before Clean Water: A Daily Struggle

Before the introduction of clean water in their community, Suzanne had to walk nearly a kilometer to fetch water from the ZUKULASWE source.

"This water was not protected, and during the rainy season, it became muddy and contaminated," she recalls.

However, she had no choice but to use it, despite the health risks to her family. 

"There were always conflicts around this source. We had to wait a long time for our turn, and sometimes even fight to fill a single jerrycan. To avoid tension, I would leave very early in the morning or late at night."

The worst part, according to her, was the impact of this water on her children's health. "Fiston fell seriously ill. He spent five days in the hospital, and I had to pay $23 for his treatment. I lost so much money because of these illnesses." Intestinal infections were frequent, and on some days, her children couldn’t even attend school due to pain or fatigue. The poor quality of the water also affected their hygiene and education. "It was almost impossible to wash their uniforms properly. The water was too dirty to remove stains, and they went to class in clothes that were never truly clean," she says.

The Change Brought by the Chosen Program

When World Vision intervened in their community through the Chosen program, everything changed. A clean water point was installed near Suzanne's home, now accessible to nearly 420 households. 

According to her, it was a huge relief: "We no longer have to walk for miles or fight for a little water. My children drink clean water, they no longer get sick, and they can go to school every day."

This transformation also changed Fiston's life. Passionate about recitation classes, he can now go to school without interruptions and dream of his future.

"Before, I was often sick and had to stay at home. Now, I go to school every day and can study without difficulty. One day, I want to become a teacher to help the children in my village learn like me," he says enthusiastically.

Access to clean water has also had an economic impact on Suzanne. 

"Before, all my money went toward medical expenses. Today, I can save and invest in a small business. With just $7, I started selling peanuts and other small products. Now, I can feed my children better."

Collective Water Management

To maintain this water point, the community has implemented a contribution system. Each household contributes $0.07 per 25-liter jerrycan. It is a small amount compared to all that this water brings us. Grateful, Suzanne expresses her thanks to those who made this project possible. "If this sponsorship program did not exist, I don't know what would have happened. Thanks to Chosen and World Vision, our children have a better life. May God bless the sponsors who support us."