[This Season of Creation, we have looked at how “living water” projects have brought life and hope to the people ministered by SCNs. Ann Muthukattil, SCN, ministers in Kanye, Botswana, a water-scarce region of Africa. She sends this update on a water project in Kanye that brought 5-thousand-liter water tanks to benefit seven in the village.]

“Botswana is a semi-desert country. The rainfall is poor and this leads to water scarcity. Hence, it is difficult for people as well as their livestock to maintain their basic needs. Many people in rural areas are poor and unable to afford water storage facility. The government in its social program makes an effort to supply each family with a couple of liters of water, but this is not sufficient for their household consumption. Hence, when there is no water supply the situation is dire and susceptible to health hazards.

We, the Sisters of Charity in Botswana, especially in Kanye, experience the shortage of water very often. Understanding the local situation, we responded to the needs of people through the assistance of the Vincentian family program.

Our aim was to uplift the chosen beneficiaries to live a normalcy of life. Through the assistance, we were able to reach out to the really needy people. It helped them in their daily needs for drinking and for kitchen gardens for fresh vegetables. Those who received the assistance are grateful for the help received. Some are continuing their kitchen gardens, which helps them in their livelihood.

Since Kanye has water shortages very often, the water tanks help the simple people in their daily needs. They alsoshare with their neighbors for drinking when there is no supply of water for weeks. Some are using [the tanks] for rain water harvesting in order to save the cost of the water bill. It reduced the dependence on Municipal water supply.

In conclusion, water tanks continue to provide consistent water supply for drinking and vegetation when the supply water runs short. It serves as reservoirs for collection and storage of water during times of plenty. The beneficiaries are grateful for the assistance. They express their gratitude for the support.”

[Photos from Vincentian Family Global Initiative]