Summer 2025: The water project is complete!
4 large, new water tanks are now installed, plumbed in and collecting rainwater run-off from the roof at Fundo School. At maximum capacity, they will provide 40,000 litres of clean water (plus additional capacity from the existing tank). It is a truly significant moment to have completed this project so that the children have year-round access to drinking water at school. Thank you to all who have raised and donated money to make this possible, and to the local team of contruction workers, brick-layers, fencers and plumbers who have completed the work with such expertise.Â
On a team visit to Fundo in 2023, one of the most difficult experiences was seeing the children crowding round the water tank at Fundo school, only to find it was empty. They were trying to get even just a dribble of water. During the dry season, this rainwater supply runs out quickly, and it can be several months until it rains and fills up again. None of the children had water bottles and for many of them it was a trek back home or to the village well to get a drink of water, missing much of the school day in the process. Water is a basic necessity and absolutely needed for children to be able to learn and for teachers to be able to teach.
The tanks collect rainwater of the long, sloping roof at the school. The 4 new tanks are connected by underground pipework so that they fill up at an even rate. They are securely fenced off to prevent damage, and 2 taps have been installed outside the fencing. One is next to the new kitchen building so that the school cook has running water when preparing daily meals for the children. And the other is next to the classroom block for the children to use during the school day, and for the community to be given access when supplies are plentiful.
Thank you once again to all who have played a part in providing this water system. It is perfect for the needs of Fundo School!