Since 1997, Bread and Water for Africa ® has spearheaded initiatives to enhance Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) standards in ten African nations. Bread and Water for Africa® multifaceted approach includes the construction of new wells, the rehabilitation of existing ones, and the implementation of spring water protection systems. Furthermore, Bread and Water for Africa® has invested in essential sanitation infrastructure within schools, notably by providing latrines, thus improving educational outcomes, living conditions, and public health.
The impact of Bread and Water for Africa® initiatives is substantial, as they have directly contributed to reducing the incidence of waterborne diseases, resulting in improved public health metrics and a higher quality of life in affected communities. Schools have particularly benefited from these efforts, allowing students to concentrate on their education without the distractions posed by water scarcity.
Gena Memcha Primary School, Ethiopia
A notable case from the 2025 program in Ethiopia involved the Gena Memcha Primary School, located in the Mekit Woreda, North Wollo of Amhara Region, in the drought-stricken arid region of the country. The school feeding initiative is supported by the World Food Program (WFP), a leading humanitarian organization fighting hunger worldwide.
The selection criteria for participating schools heavily weigh the availability of water on-site, which is essential for culinary, drinking, and sanitation needs, making Gena Memcha a candidate for the program.
However, complications arose when the hand-dug well on the school premises malfunctioned six months prior, significantly impairing the feeding program’s operations.
Challenges Faced by the School Feeding Program
The major challenge faced before Bread and Water for Africa® intervention was the disruption of the school feeding initiative due to the broken well. The inability of the school and the Woreda Water Office to restore the water supply hampered meal preparation and sanitation practices. Consequently, the feeding program experienced frequent suspensions or operated under suboptimal conditions. Even when meals were provided, the lack of clean water severely compromised hygiene, impacting handwashing protocols for both students and staff.
School’s Attempted Solutions
In response to the water supply crisis, the school management enforced a policy requiring students to bring five liters of water daily in exchange for their meal portions. This solution placed an undue burden on young children, many of whom were forced to travel long distances with heavy water containers in addition to their academic materials. This system persisted for six months, adversely affecting both the physical health and academic performance of the students.
Bread and Water for Africa® Intervention
Acknowledging the pressing need for a sustainable resolution, Bread and Water for Africa® intervened by repairing the compromised water facility and restoring its operational capacity. This intervention was crucial in restoring the reliable operation of the school feeding program and alleviating the daily burden of water fetching on students. As a result, students were able to focus more on their studies, leading to improved academic performance.
Beyond addressing immediate operational challenges, Bread and Water for Africa® initiatives yield long-term benefits. These include improved health outcomes, reduced time spent on water collection and enhanced academic focus. By ensuring dependable access to potable water, Bread and Water for Africa continues to effect significant positive changes within communities, highlighting the long-term sustainability of Bread and Water for Africa® WASH program.
Bread and Water for Africa® plays a crucial role in providing access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene. This commitment serves as a model for sustainable community development, contributing to a healthier and more promising future for many.
