Project Launch: 10-3-19

Justin Water Users Association, a community organization dedicated to creating sustainable water outlets in Justin, Malawi, will drill a borehole to increase access to clean and safe water. Currently, community members use water from a shallow well which is very dirty, hence the spread of waterborne diseases. A borehole committee will be elected and trained in borehole maintenance to aid in sustainability. The community looks forward to a reduction in waterborne diseases, improved health, and greater quality of life. 

Project Update: 1-23-20

The Justin Village Association has successfully drilled and installed a 45 meter deep borehole in Justin Village, Machinga district. The borehole has provided access to clean and safe water to approximately 177 households with a total population of 887 people. The installation of this borehole has significantly reduced the distance community members have to travel to access safe, drinking water. The next step for the community group is sensitizing the community on the importance of taking care of the borehole and other hygiene and sanitation practices. Reflecting on the project, one community member says “I am very happy that the borehole is so close. I am old, and it was difficult for me to go so far to Mpelula. I am very thankful for World Connect and we are ready to care for the borehole.” The clear and safe water will also reduce outbreak of water related diseases whichwere commonplace in the village.

Final Report: 3-31-20

With $4,297.36 from World Connect and a significant community cash contribution, The Justin Water Users Association has successfully drilled and installed a 45 meter deep borehole in Justin Village, Machinga district. The borehole provides approximately 177 households, or 887 people, access to clean and safe water, directly reducing the rate of water related diseases from 10 reported cases monthly to zero. The installation of this borehole has significantly reduced the distance community members have to travel to access safe drinking water. All 20 members of the committee have been trained in hygiene and sanitation and have also started using the water to grow a communal vegetable garden whose profits will be used to buy spare parts for maintaining the borehole long term.

The Local Leader confirms that availability of this water facility has proven to be vital in the fight against COVID-19 as people use the water to frequently wash their hands in a bid to stay safe. Madison Rickoff, the project's Established Field Partner, says, “watching the people of Justin coming together and working towards a common cause was incredibly rewarding to witness. I am so proud of everyone involved in the project and I am looking forward to what can be accomplished there in the future. The success we had with communication and accountability among all stakeholders is very encouraging for the possibility of future accomplishments. I feel extremely privileged to be a part of such an amazing effort for such an important cause.”