In 2010, the United Nations declared access to clean water and sanitation as a basic human right. Yet, for millions around the world, this remains an unmet promise. In Africa, water scarcity continues to rise, and unclean water poses a far greater threat to human security than many realize —claiming millions of lives each year, especially among children.
At the Zain Jaffer Foundation, we believe clean water is fundamental to breaking the cycle of poverty. That’s why we’re excited to announce our partnership with WIPAHS, a Tanzanian non-profit with over 30 years of experience in addressing one of humanity’s most urgent challenges: providing safe drinking water.
Why This Matters
For one in every six people in Tanzania, access to clean drinking water is still a daily struggle. Women and children are often tasked with walking up to 10 kilometers to fetch water—time that could be spent in school, at work, or with family. Worse yet, the water they bring home isn’t always safe to drink, leading to outbreaks of disease and unnecessary deaths.
The ripple effects are devastating: weakened health, reduced economic productivity, and an entire generation hindered by time lost to basic survival tasks.
How We’re Making an Impact
Through WIPAHS’ Give Water to the Thirsty initiative, we’re contributing to two critical well-building projects:
- Shallow Wells Project: These wells cost just $1,500 each and provide clean water to entire communities. WIPAHS has already built over 800 shallow wells in remote areas such as Bagamoyo, Kilwa, and Kibada.
- Rota Sludge Wells Project: Using innovative rope pump technology, WIPAHS is digging deeper, longer-lasting wells that serve schools, hospitals, and villages without access to clean water. To date, 125 of these wells have been installed, requiring minimal upkeep and no electricity.
WIPAHS’ work doesn’t stop at water. Their programs span education, healthcare, economic development, and social welfare. From sponsoring meals and medical assistance to supporting orphaned children and small-scale businesses, their efforts touch every facet of community life.
The need for clean water has only grown more urgent, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The burden of global crises falls disproportionately on communities already struggling to meet basic needs like access to water. Together, we can change that.
If you’d like to join us in supporting WIPAHS’ life-changing work, there are many ways to get involved. You can:
- Sponsor the construction of a well in a specific area.
- Donate to their broader programs, including healthcare, education, and social awareness initiatives.
- Contribute as an investor in long-term infrastructure projects.
As we look ahead, let’s use this moment to build a more equitable, resilient world—starting with the foundation of life itself: clean water.
