22nd January 2020, Kigali, Rwanda – In a bid to tackle the alarming issue of unsafe drinking water in schools across Rwanda, a Korean company, ACAM CO Ltd, has launched a new project aimed at improving access to clean and safe water for students. After identifying the health risks posed by the consumption of untreated rainwater, piped water, and spring water, the company has decided to support schools that lack water purification systems.
The initiative, launched in January 2020, focuses on distributing water tanks equipped with filters and providing water-purifying tablets to selected schools. During the pilot phase, 30 schools in Kamonyi District and 10 schools in Muhanga District will benefit. The project’s overall goal is to reach 200 schools in Rwanda’s Southern Province by the end of 2020, providing safe drinking water to thousands of students.
The project is being implemented under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and is set to be executed in two stages. The pilot phase will cover 40 schools, and, contingent on its success, a fully-implemented stage will expand the project to another 160 schools. The organization ARDE/KUBAHO, known for its extensive experience in WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) projects across Rwanda, is the implementing partner. ACAM CO Ltd is spearheading the project, with Alink Aficia Co. Ltd serving as the local coordinator.
During a recent interaction with key stakeholders, local officials and beneficiaries expressed excitement about the initiative. Mr. Emmanuel, Director of Education for Muhanga District, stated that the project aligns perfectly with the district’s plans to provide drinking water in schools. He expressed hope that the initiative would be expanded to more schools and committed to regular follow-ups to ensure proper usage of the tanks and tablets.
Headteachers also shared their gratitude. Sister Ntawiha Nyirakarire Anonciata, headteacher of EP La Misericode, and Mr. Kwizera, headteacher of Groupe Scolaire Nyabisindu, mentioned that they had previously invested in small water tanks for their schools. However, these tanks proved inadequate, often leading to disputes among students struggling to access clean water. “This project is a dream come true,” they shared.
Other school staff echoed their sentiments, with one staff member stating, “God has finally answered our prayers.” Students, too, are overjoyed, knowing that they will now have a consistent supply of clean drinking water to support their health and wellbeing.
With the successful implementation of this project, ACAM CO Ltd and its partners are set to make a lasting impact on the lives of school children, significantly improving their access to safe drinking water and contributing to better health outcomes in Rwanda’s education sector.
