Building sustainable access to clean water
WASH, an acronym representing "water, sanitation, and hygiene," isn't just a term; it's a global movement. Ensuring universal, affordable, and sustainable access to WASH is more than a developmental goal—it's a public health imperative recognised at the heart of international development and enshrined in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
MAA's Commitment to Clean Water and Beyond
At MAA, our conviction runs deep: every individual deserves access to clean drinking water. This belief isn't just about quenching thirst—it's about laying the foundation for all other developmental milestones. In a world where over a billion souls still grapple with the scarcity of safe drinking water, our mission becomes even more pressing.
Building Water Wells: A Cornerstone of Our WASH Initiatives
One of the most tangible and impactful ways we further our WASH mission is through the construction of water wells. These wells serve as lifelines for communities, providing a consistent and reliable source of clean water. Beyond just quenching thirst, they play a pivotal role in agriculture, sanitation, and daily household tasks. Each well we build is a testament to our commitment to sustainable development, ensuring that communities have the tools they need to thrive for years to come.
Building a Well: An Impactful Sadaqah Jariyah Project
Building a Water Well, a Community Water System, or a Borehole to support struggling communities to gain access to clean water is a form of Sadaqah Jariyah (continuous charity). You're investing in a project that will continue to earn rewards for you in this life and the hereafter, in shaa Allah.The rewards for such acts of charity are immense, as Allah promises multiplied rewards for those who spend in His way.
The Prophet (Peace be Upon Him) said:
“When a man passes away, his good deeds will also come to an end except for three: Sadaqah Jariyah (ceaseless charity); a knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous descendant who prays for him (for the deceased)” Narrated by Abu Hurairah, Sahih Muslim
Beyond Infrastructure: A Holistic Approach to WASH
Our WASH initiatives at MAA go beyond just building infrastructure. We're dedicated to enhancing sanitation standards and cultivating hygiene awareness. By doing so, we aim to foster self-sustaining communities that not only have access to clean water but also understand its value and the importance of sanitation and hygiene in daily life.
Meet Faisal:
Faisal (pictured above) lives in a remote area of Somalia. He used to walk several kilometres a day in blistering heat to fetch a jerry can of water that was not safe for drinking. He then had to carry this heavy jerry can back home. This process often took the most part of a day, which meant that going to school was just a dream for Faisal.
Faisal’s situation is not unique and countless children across the globe face this same struggle on a daily basis. When MAA was made aware of the situation, we completed our needs assessment and began construction of a water well. This well now benefits the entire village of several hundred households and allows for children like Faisal to receive an education and put an end to the cycle of poverty that persists.