World Vision's WASH Sector Empowering Communities with Clean Water Access

Throughout a 13-year journey of the displacement of over 1.5 million Syrian individuals with a majority residing in an informal tented settlements in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, World Vision has been committed to delivering Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services to these families. This includes water trucking, desludging, and Community engagement sessions. With the support of World Vision Taiwan, families are receiving clean potable water to meet the sector recommendation of a minimum 20 LPC/D in the settlements in Ferzol, Bekaa.

As an initial step, before filling each family’s water tanks with water, World Vision conducts a water quality test. A small sample of water from the truck is taken and tested. After a thorough mixing of the components, we allow the colour to develop for a specific duration.

Next, the resulting colour intensity is compared with a colour scale. This allows to determine the chlorine concentration based on the observed colour intensity or absorbance value. This process helps ensure the water meets the necessary standards for safe consumption.

After completing the water quality testing process, World Vision proceeds to fill the water tanks, and ensures that each family receives their allocated amount of water. Additionally, each family is asked to stamp on a paper to confirm receipt of their water supply for accountability and transparency in the distribution process.

Mohamed resides with his wife and children says “Each filled tank typically lasts for approximately one week. We use the water for both domestic and drinking purposes".

"Last summer was particularly challenging, my siblings and I were showering once per day during the heatwaves, compared to our usual frequency of every two to three days", shares Abdel Rahman, 16.

Roukaya, a mother of two daughters and a son, expresses, "The community engagement sessions were quite helpful. We were taught how to clean the water tanks, the significance of sealing them properly, and adding chlorine to it. Also, we have been taught how to prevent scabies and head lice, we have gained effective ways to keep our tent clean and manage garbage. These lessons have been immensely valuable, ensuring the safety and well-being of our family".

In 2023, World Vision reached 45,332 Syrian refugees with potable water, desludging, and community engagement sessions.