Feel the cool, clean liquid running down your throat, quenching your thirst. You have a treasure in your own kitchen faucet many around the world do not enjoy. They might have a water supply, but it is often a long walk away and contaminated with waste, causing deadly diseases. In spite of this, the filthy substance is still used for washing, drinking, and cooking in countries including Uganda... the pearl of Africa.

OBI contact Roy Davidson is working hard with the Masindi District government to provide a well in four Ugandan villages. In early December, all 650 residents of Katama began to enjoy fresh water after a well had been dug and installed by Safewater Company.

To ensure the precious commodity was not wasted, the first three villages including Katama decided to set a $7 per year usage fee on themselves. Not only does this project provide a life-sustaining substance, but an Attendant was hired for $25 per month to restrict the well to village residents. The small revenue collected from the three communities will create funding for another village, Bunya-lganga, where residents will not be able to afford the mere sixty cents per week.

"The average income in Uganda is between $120-$600 per year," Roy comments. "[Through each well project,] We provide clean, fresh drinking water, create a job and income for a family, as well as supply a means to maintain the well."

Beginning in January, the village of Kihande will see the large drill begin working in their community. In just a matter of weeks over 800 people will have access to healthy water for the first time in their lives! Following Kihande, drilling in Bunya-lganga will begin. Soon, over 2,500 Ugandans won't have to fear when using their water. Mothers will be able to sleep peaceably knowing their child will not die from the water they drink.

"Water is a basic necessity of life," says Christianne Debysingh, OBI Region Programs Manager. "This is why OBI chooses to address the great need of providing clean safe water for those who are without."

Thank you to our OBI partners who are helping in watering the pearl of Africa!

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Help break the cycle of suffering by giving toward Operation Blessing's water wells and cisterns program. A gift of $1,800 can drill a well for villages and supply families with clean drinking water.

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