Nelly Bassily | August 1, 2011
Water is one of life’s basic necessities. Yet it is estimated that a third of Africans do not have access to clean drinking water. Supported by an international NGO, women in this story are learning how their water supply operates so that they can maintain it themselves. It may be hard and dirty work, but they believe it is worth it to ensure a regular and safe supply of water.
Find out more about WaterAid’s work in Malawi, and watch a short video about the project in Machinga District at: http://malawi.wateraid.org/about-us
Here are links to some facts and figures on water and sanitation: http://www.watercan.com/PDF/Factsheet%20on%20Water%20and%20Sanitation%202008.pdf
http://www.unwater.org/mediaresources.html
Farm Radio International has produced over 40 scripts related to water and water management, including a recent package on water integrity in November 2010. Browse all these scripts here: http://farmradio.org/english/radio-scripts/water.asp
Here are some previous Farm Radio Weekly stories related to water supply:
Rwanda: Maraba primary school students enjoy clean water (FRW 139, December 2010) http://weekly.farmradio.org/2010/12/20/rwanda-maraba-primary-school-students-enjoy-clean-water-by-jean-paul-ntezimana-for-farm-radio-weekly-in-rwanda/
East Africa: Countries negotiate for their fair share of Nile water (FRW 114, June 2010) http://weekly.farmradio.org/2010/06/07/3-east-africa-countries-negotiate-for-their-fair-share-of-nile-water-allafrica-irin/
Kenya: Rainwater harvesting improves rural livelihoods (FRW15, March 2008) http://weekly.farmradio.org/2008/03/17/1-kenya-rainwater-harvesting-improves-rural-livelihoods-various-sources/
Water is a broad topic, with lots of opportunities to choose an issue that is relevant to your listeners. Think about a specific topic that is relevant in your community. It could be the lack of maintenance at public water points, or recurring floods, or the lack of sanitation in local schools. Ask the people affected about the difficulties they face, and how they have tried to resolve the problems.
-Have they been able to get any help or advice?
-What long-term effects are likely if the issue is not resolved?
-Do any communities have stories of how they overcame difficulties?
-Can individuals make a difference, or is collective effort required?