Have a Good Life

Issue: We live on top of a mountain where there is no public water access, forcing the residents of Nyarugenge to walk one hour or more to find dirty water in a neighboring valley. As a result, there is a high level of disease in the area, including cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. Women, particularly those who are handicapped or vulnerable, are often sexually exploited in exchange for water, increasing rates of HIV/AIDS in our community. In addition, women are affected even further by this issue since lack of water serves as a trigger for domestic violence and family conflict.

Mission: To end violence against women by providing water access to our community.

Solution: Have a Good Life has constructed a water tank and water access point, and has extended the local water pipeline to their community of Nyarugenge. In addition to serving 200 families with purified water, they regularly hold community trainings about the importance of clean water to prevent water borne disease.

12-Month Goals:

• Reduce the problem of violence and sexual exploitation associated with lack of access to water
• Reduce water-related illnesses among women and children
• Increase the personal hygiene and sanitation of the community

Impact: Since beginning operations in 2010, more than 200 households within this community now have access to clean water, water-borne illnesses have been reduced, as have rates of domestic violence. Good hygiene has been dramatically increased. Additionally, Have a Good Life uses proceeds from their water venture to provide health insurance to 14 vulnerable households and school materials to 21 orphaned or very poor children.