Living Water Development in partnership with ISAA was teaching the Water Development Team, that was established in March 2008 to build concrete culverts for uses such as incinerators. Just after that, some members of the group combined to make a Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WaSH) teaching group. The aim was to give the group opportunity to generate income and establish a business in Wairaka and to also train students and the local communities in better use of water and the importance of hygiene for personal health.

Up until last year the groups were there but had not initiated the training on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene. It is encouraging seeing the group’s teamwork, commitment and motivation have increased to further the culvert business, teach and set up better hygiene practices. They have put in Tippy Taps, for washing hands where no tap is available and incinerators to burn rubbish in a contained manner. This was accomplished in some local homes and in the Wairaka Clinic and these developments are noticeable in the community. The team will be following up the investments with WASH teachings over the next month. We are so excited for their initiative and increased capacity to pass on what they have learnt.

May God grant them great success in their endevours to training others and achieve a healthier and more informed community in Wairaka.

1 June 2010, By Emily Comans