In Dawasamu, Fiji, our collaborative project focuses on installing rainwater harvesting systems, and assessing and enhancing sustainable agriculture by building vegetable gardens. Our goal is to support communities with fresh-water management, water security and water and sanitation hygiene whilst contributing to gender equality through our other collaborative, community led projects such as health, education and women's empowerment.
Dawasamu, Fiji, faces clean water scarcity, which is necessary for sanitation and health. Women and girls are responsible for water collection off-premises in 8 out of 10 households (WHO, 2017). Water is essential for all members of a community, and the collection of water mostly rely upon females.
The project focuses upon continuous knowledge exchange with the local community and partners to ensure effective, long-term sustainable change. By installing rainwater harvesting systems, and assessing and enhancing sustainable agriculture by building vegetable gardens, we assist locals in addressing a wide range of issues surrounding water scarcity.
The project works on behavioural change whilst providing natural resources management. Additionally, an ongoing mentoring program offers members of the community opportunities to assist and lead projects concerning water management. The program contributes to the SDGs by focusing on involving women and communities to help facilitate long-term change and contribute to gender equity and securing clean water and sanitation for all.
