Bringing clean water to Tsito Tife

On 18th April, a Launch Meeting was held In Tsito Tife with HOPE staff, community leaders, elders, women representatives and local administration bodies.  "It was a fruitful discussion," stated HOPE Ethiopia Strategy and Programmes Manager, Awoke Dagnew, "as we outlined the plans for the construction of the water system and what roles community members will be responsible for fulfilling." 

These initial meetings with our implementation communities are vital in setting out the plans made for the construction of the new water system and how the community will be involved.  "HOPE's approach always involves the community in the implementation of the project to build participation and ownership, aiming to avoid creating dependency," explains Awoke further. The meetings are also crucial in setting a culture of cooperation, learning and investment.  HOPE has found that with clear communication and inspirational vision casting at this stage of the project, the community learns what role they have to play in building their own water system and what impact the varied training will have on their future. 

Another significant aspect of this initial meeting with the community was to elect 21 local men and women to form a Water, Sanitation and Health Association (WaSHA). They have agreed to take on the responsibility of the management of their water system, as well as collecting water user fees, which will be invested in its ongoing maintenance.  After HOPE has moved on, the WaSHA will liaise with local government officials when outside guidance is required.  Having women in the WaSHA is fundamental to increasing their voice in community affairs.

As the project in Tsito Tife progresses we will send you further reports about how the construction of the water system is progressing.  We will aim to keep you informed about the impact of the various training compents - health, hygiene and sanitation education; women's empowerment and capacity building; improved agricultural skills and environmental protection (e.g. dam building and tree planting). 

We were informed last month that we were shortlisted for a large grant which would cover the final funds needed for the Tsito Tife budget.  We are hoping to have positive news to share in July.

Thank you again for your support of this transformative development project in southern Ethiopia.