UNIFIED EFFORTS IN EAST SUMBA SHAPE THE FUTURE OF WATER ACCESS AND SANITATION THROUGH THE #WATERCONNECTIONS LAINDATANG PROJECT
In Waingapu, a landmark meeting forges a strategic alliance between local communities, state, and humanitarian organizations, setting a new course for sustainable development
In a small café in Waingapu, on January 31, 2024, a crucial meeting took place, marking a decisive step for the #WaterConnections Laindatang project, which is entering its phases 2 and 3. This assembly saw the participation of key figures, including the authorities of East Sumba, the head of the education department and his assistant, responsible for all schools in the region, the village authorities, the school management and its committee, as well as the partners of Kawan Baik and Fair Future, represented in the field by Alex Wettstein, co-manager of the project.
The outcome of this meeting was the realization of the remarkable success, testifying to the positive aura and recognized excellence of the humanitarian work of Fair Future and Kawan Baik for more than five years of continuous presence in East Sumba and the implementation of noted and remarkable projects.
Perjanjian kerjasama ini disahkan dalam suasana saling menghormati, melambangkan kemitraan strategis antara Negara, desa, dan organisasi yang terlibat. Sekolah Laindatang sebagai lembaga resmi mendapat dukungan negara yang turut serta dalam pembangunan toilet. Selain itu, kontribusi desa berupa pipa HDPE sepanjang 500 meter merupakan wujud komitmen nyata dan signifikan masyarakat setempat terhadap proyek ini.
The most striking element of this collaboration is undoubtedly the villagers’ commitment to working daily alongside the teams on the ground to complete the project’s construction successfully. This commitment goes beyond aid; it symbolizes a desire to learn and acquire new skills essential for the autonomy and sustainable development of the community. It has always been the critical way of working for our two organizations; it meets two goals: Empowering ultra-rural communities through learning new things.
The meeting ended with moments of conviviality, sharing coffee, fruit juice, and a collective prayer, highlighting the unity and solidarity of the actors involved. This day represents a success for the #WaterConnections Laindatang project and a strong affirmation of the ability to work together, including with the State, in a spirit of trust and cooperation.
This initiative coincides with the 15th anniversary of Fair Future, adding a sentimental and historical dimension to this commitment. The implementation of this project, planned to last until the beginning of April 2024, promises to radically transform the lives of the inhabitants of Laindatang as well as the lives of the school and the 76 children aged 6 to 12, by providing them with access to clean water, adequate sanitation, and helping to reduce child mortality as well as water and hygiene-related diseases, promising a healthier and more harmonious future for all.
The #WaterConnections Laindatang project is an eloquent testimony to what can be accomplished when diverse entities collaborate with a common goal: to improve the living conditions of the most vulnerable communities. It highlights the importance of solidarity, education, and hard work while highlighting the direct impact of such initiatives on reducing infectious diseases and promoting a healthier and safer future for all.
Alex Wettstein – Fair Future Foundation medico-social camp in East Sumba – Rumah Kambera, Lambanapu – The 1st February 2024
31 Januari 2024 – Di Waingapu, kami sedang menyelesaikan proyek #WaterConnections Laindatatang sehingga pekerjaan dapat segera dimulai.
