Handwashing saves lives
COVID-19 has now hit Africa, and its spread in the region is being described as a ‘ticking time-bomb’. Simple hand hygiene can limit the spread of the virus and help save lives. However, let us pause for a moment to consider that more than 300 million people do not have access to safe water in sub-Saharan Africa, not standing a chance to protect themselves against the outbreak. While handwashing might be an effective defence, it is simply not an option for these communities
Superpowers: water, soap and taps
Proper handwashing, with clean water and soap, has been declared the cheapest and most effective medicine to combat the Corona outbreak. WHO recommends washing your hands frequently and thoroughly, to the tune of Happy Birthday – twice! As simple as this sounds, handwashing is not an option for 785 million people around the world as access to safe water remains extremely limited.
This is especially true for sub-Saharan Africa, for example, where more than 50% households do not have access to water for handwashing, let alone soap. Meaning handwashing advice for approximately half a billion people in the region, is simply futile unless access to safe water is ensured. Now that the virus has hit the African continent, its spread in the region is being described as a ‘ticking time bomb’. With weak healthcare infrastructures, many of these countries are at an imminent risk of being overpowered by the disease.
Our focus countries: Ghana and Kenya
Research has shown that Ghana and Kenya are two of the worst countries in the region in terms of preparedness to handle a public health emergency. Inevitably, they are also amongst the most vulnerable in the face of the pandemic. But our message is one of action and perseverance in the face of unprecedented uncertainty. Immediate and sustainable access to safe water is going to prove to be one of the most effective means to curb the spread of Coronavirus in Africa.
The work we do in rural communities in Ghana and Kenya will save lives, more so than ever before. Access to safe water will provide these communities a fighting chance against the pandemic.
Having provided safe water to 60,000 people in Ghana and Kenya so far, we believe a steep expansion in our efforts is the most important need of the hour. Ours is a cost-effective, sustainable, solar-powered water kiosk that can provide continuous access to safe water to the most remote and underserved rural communities. Support us to save lives.
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