ChildFund Deutschland in Gambia

Gambia is the smallest land area in Africa - and one of the poorest. Almost half of the population lives under the national poverty limit. There are hardly any mineral resources, most people are engaged in agriculture and fishing. The country is rich in wetlands, but clean drinking water is scarce. Especially in the countryside, people often have to quench their thirst from streams or muddy water holes. The infrastructure of many villages is completely underdeveloped, the wells often in bad repair or contaminated.

Every year in the Gambia, many children die from diseases that could have been avoided if they had access to clean drinking water and better hygiene. Although there is enough water, many people have to use unsafe sources due to their poverty and lack of infrastructure. Since 2007, ChildFund has been building new wells and replacing old ones. Our most important goal: to permanently reduce the risk of infection for children.

Insecure sources, lack of hygiene and a lack of problem awareness lead to major health risks. Fresh water parasites and pathogens from sewage or animal droppings can carry infections, which is particularly dangerous for toddlers. Cholera, dysentery, hepatitis and typhoid are typical diseases that spread along this path. Trachoma, a water-borne eye disease, affects children in particular, and is responsible for millions of cases of blindness throughout Africa. All this could be avoided: through clean water, better hygiene and targeted reconnaissance.

By building and renovating wells and sanitation facilities in the countryside, ChildFund Deutschland ensures the health of tens of thousands of people. In addition, we conduct health training. Young women and girls are addressed specifically because they are responsible for the care of their families. They benefit from the new wells in a special way. Even the shorter distances and waiting times during watering mean a better quality of life and more time for the family.

To ensure our success is sustainable, we promote the health consciousness and responsibility of the people. Together, they take care of the repair and maintenance of wells. Everything is paid out of the deposits of a savings account, to which each family contributes some money. For what is one's own, one appreciates most. This is practical help for self-help, which carries and grows!