Water is essential to human life and a vital natural resource for the survival of life on our planet. Yet water scarcity is increasing around the world at an alarming rate in places like Nicaragua. For many families particularly in the countryside, accessing safe water can be a difficult daily challenge. About a third of the population does not have potable water, and in rural areas, the number of people without potable water can be as high as 70 percent.
With the generous support of the Cottonwood Foundation, and the hard work of the local communities, we have brought much-needed potable water to five rural communities in Tipitapa – Los Caleros, San Benito Agricola, Rio Panama, San Luis, and La Esperanza. Having good, reliable water not only improves health and hygiene, it also empowers communities to improve their economic condition. Where there was barren dry dirt, now there are community gardens, plant nurseries, roadside restaurants, and many other small businesses started by local families. Now that women and children are not burdened by the daily task of carrying water for long distances, they can focus more on education and family life.
Our plan is to continue to bring water (what Nicaraguans call ‘vital liquid’) to more communities. This year we will begin our fifth potable water project in Ciudadela San Martin – a community that boasts a strong community-managed water system that is operated 100% by its residents. Due to inadequate system extensions to accommodate new households over time, the system has quickly deteriorated and is in need of proper expansion. The community has come together to lay the pipes, and with the help of our donors, we will fund the materials needed to extend adequate water access to the entire community because investment in water equals substantial benefits to healthcare, social equity, the environment and the economic well-being of communties.
