WHY CLEAN WATER IS A BASIC HUMAN RIGHT
On March 17, more than 40 people gathered to participate in LA's monthly meeting. The focus was on the issue of safe, clean water as a basic human right.
The speakers included Charles Trevino, member of the Board of Directors of the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District, and Mr. Ortega, an environmental engineer.
"There are more problems to eliminate toxins continuously, as much of the water is reclaimed rather than coming from pure sources," Emma Reed said. "Also, the infrastructure for processing water is over 100 years old and not meant to support the large population we now have. [Mr. Ortega] predicted that the cost of water will soon be higher than the cost of cable TV for most citizens."
The main speaker was Hadiara Diallo, director of microfinance at Wells Bring Hope, an organization that strives to provide clean, safe water in Niger, one of the most water-deprived countries on the planet.
In Nigeria, women and girls as young as 5 walk far distances to fetch water for their homes, and the trips often take several hours.
"Hadiara presented a viable solution to the problem," Reed said. "Capped wells can be provided and maintained at minimal cost. One well can support up to 600 families. The time saved frees the women and girls for other productive activities. They can go to school, learn a trade, learn how to operate a business, and spend quality time with their families. Their health and life expectancy are greatly improved."
If you would like to learn more about efforts to provide clean and safe water in Niger, visit wellsbringhope.org
