Our Challenge to Solve

The Water Problem

Rural south western Uganda, particularly around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, faces significant challenges in water, sanitation, and lighting. The region’s hilly terrain means that water is primarily available in the valleys, while settlements are located on hilltops or along hillsides.

Consequently, many communities rely on contaminated water sources, such as rivers, swamps, and unprotected springs, which are shared with animals and polluted by human activities. This situation leads to widespread water-borne infections, including typhoid, dysentery, and diarrheal diseases, which are major causes of morbidity and mortality, especially among children under five.

Sanitation infrastructure is inadequate, with many households lacking basic facilities. Open defecation and rudimentary latrines are common, further contaminating water sources and exacerbating health issues.

Women and children are disproportionately affected, as they typically bear the burden of fetching water. They often travel long distances up and downhill, spending several hours each day on this task. This not only exposes them to physical strain and safety risks but also limits their opportunities for education and economic activities. Girls frequently assist in water collection, disrupting their schooling and contributing to poor educational outcomes.

The Lighting Problem

Access to safe and clean lighting is grossly limited. Many households rely on hazardous sources like kerosene lamps and candles, which pose significant health risks such as respiratory illnesses and eye strain. These traditional lighting methods present safety hazards, including a high risk of fire accidents.

The lack of adequate lighting hampers educational opportunities, as children cannot study after dark, and restricts economic activities by limiting business hours especially at farm produce stalls. This adversely affects the quality of life, reducing time for earning an income, leisure and household activities.

Solar and other clean lighting solutions offer substantial benefits. They improve health and safety, protect the environment, enhance educational outcomes by enabling evening study, and empower economic activities by extending business hours.

However, financial barriers often prevent the poorest households, who are most in need, from accessing these solutions. Increasing access to clean water, improved sanitation, and safe lighting is crucial for sustainable development and improved living conditions in rural South Western Uganda.