In our previous blog entries we have already discussed how borehole rehabilitation projects can reduce co2 emissions originated from burning biomass for water purification. Today’s blog entry wants to shed a light on the current situation of the water sector in Northern Uganda to show that beside climate change mitigation, investing in borehole projects makes a big difference in people’s life on the ground.
Across the globe, around 884 million people lack access to safe water supplies; which is approximately one in eight people (UNICEF/WHO). Only 22-34% of the population of sub-Saharan countries have access to clean water (UNEP), so it is clear that the problem of safe water supply or water stress is of particular concern in the region. It is in part due to the high variability and climatic extremes present in this area of continent, but the primary reason is a lack of infrastructure. The situation is further complicated in Northern Uganda – the project area of CO2balance – where communities have developed a dependency on development programmes as a result of having lived in IDP camps for over 20 years (UWASNET). The region experienced conflict as a result of armed rebellion by the Lord’s Resistance Army, which led to widespread displacement of almost the entire population of the region (UNICEF). The recovery now is under way, but several challenges slow down the reconstruction of the area. Water stress has been shown to be one of the key barriers in achieving economic development, so achieving the growth necessary to invest in infrastructure remains out of reach in a vicious cycle.
Through effective and accountable external funding and through close cooperation with local communities, co2balance aims to provide a potential model in coping with the lack of investment in Kole, Alebtong, Otuke and Alebtong districts, hoping that this way we contribute our fair share in solving the problem. For more information on our boreholes stay tuned on this blog where our in-country coordinator will post regular updates on the progress of our clean water projects.