Before OBI drilled the water well in the village of Uke, children retrieved water from contaminated ponds.

For the first time in 14 years, thousands of people in Uke village have a clean water source.

NIGERIA - As cars speed along the busy highway leading to the capital city of Abuja, Nigeria, it’s not unusual to see children huddled just beyond the road’s embankment.

Crouching beside murky pools of water, the children of Uke village generously scoop bowlfuls of water into their plastic buckets to carry home.

For this village and many others in Africa, these often contaminated ponds and shallow wells are the only source of water for drinking, cooking and washing.

That is until April of this year.

Thanks to a new water well drilled by Operation Blessing, thousands living in Uke village will have access to a clean water source for the first time in 14 years.

OB Nigeria also helped villagers construct 22 latrines.

"I want to express the gratitude of this community," said Uke Chief Kalledi at the dedication ceremony. "We can't give you anything back. What we never thought or dreamt of, we have now."

"Operation Blessing came in at the right time," said John Kalma, OB Nigeria staff. "We are happy to be involved in the success of this community."

In addition to providing the village with clean water, OB Nigeria will continue to work with local leaders to help equip the Uke people.

Future plans include a microenterprise poultry project and training courses for women in how to make and sell in-demand items such as yogurt, soap and baked goods.

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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