Access to clean, safe water is fundamental to health and well-being, yet many remote villages in Angola once relied on unsafe, labor-intensive water sources. Since 2013, Owini Mitrelli’s Water Sector has been a driving force in changing this reality through the Water for All project. This initiative, aligned with Angola’s Development Millennium Goals, has provided sustainable water infrastructure across the country, bringing life-changing benefits to hundreds of thousands of people. In this article, we delve into the remarkable achievements and the formidable challenges faced in this ambitious endeavor.
Water for All: A Lifeline for Remote Communities
The Water for All project was conceived to address one of Angola’s most pressing needs—access to clean water in rural areas. Prior to the project, communities often drew water from rivers, lakes, springs, and wells, sources that were not only distant but also hazardous. The project’s mission was clear: to deliver a reliable, sustainable water supply to these underserved regions.
Owini’s comprehensive approach involved everything from initial surveys, design, and engineering to the supply of materials, civil works, and logistics. The construction of 215 water supply systems across nine provinces, including Cuando Cubango, stands as a testament to Owini’s commitment. These systems serve around 430,000 people, ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to safe water. Each system draws water from natural sources, treats it in solar-powered plants, and stores it in tanks before distribution through a network of fountains, taps, and laundry and shower units.
Overcoming Challenges in the Heart of Angola
Implementing the Water for All project was no small feat. The sheer scale of the operation, with some construction sites located up to 900 kilometers apart, posed significant logistical challenges. The lack of infrastructure, including roads, meant that transporting materials to these remote areas often took days. Special trucks were required to navigate the rough terrain, and the presence of dangerous wildlife, such as crocodiles and hippopotamuses, added to the risks faced by both the construction teams and the local populations.
Despite these hurdles, Owini was determined to create a robust and reliable water supply system. The design prioritized simplicity and sustainability, with fully solar-powered systems and analog control equipment that could be easily operated and maintained by local technicians. This approach not only addressed immediate needs but also ensured the long-term success of the project.
Impact on Health, Sanitation, and Safety
The impact of the Water for All project on the communities of Cuando Cubango Province and beyond has been profound. By providing a reliable source of potable water, the project has significantly improved health outcomes, reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases. Improved sanitation facilities have also contributed to better hygiene practices, further protecting these communities from illness.
Additionally, the project has enhanced the safety of the local population. Before the introduction of these water systems, villagers often risked their lives fetching water from rivers, where they were vulnerable to attacks by wild animals. By bringing water directly to the villages, the project has eliminated this danger, allowing people to access water without fear.
A Model for Sustainable Development
The Water for All project exemplifies the principles of sustainable development. By integrating solar power and simple, robust technology, Owini has created a water supply system that not only meets immediate needs but is also sustainable for the future. The success of the project in Cuando Cubango Province, where over 100,000 people now have access to clean water, underscores the importance of such initiatives in improving health, safety, and economic opportunities in rural Africa.
A Better Future For All
Owini, a key player in Mitrelli’s water and food security sector, has partnered with the Angolan government to design and construct the transformative “Water for All” project. This initiative has successfully delivered clean, safe water to hundreds of thousands of people across some of the most remote and challenging regions of Angola. Despite the inevitable challenges encountered, the project’s success underscores the vital role of sustainable infrastructure and community empowerment in driving long-lasting change.
By providing local communities with reliable access to clean water, Owini has not only improved public health but also created new job opportunities, fostering socio-economic growth. The ripple effects of these improvements extend far beyond the immediate benefits of safe drinking water, contributing to a brighter and more sustainable future for the people of Angola.
