Resilient Futures for Bijagos Island Communities

Life in Anghaqueno Village on Rubane Island continues to be defined by a daily struggle for one of the most basic human needs—safe water. The village's 748 residents rely on just two damaged traditional wells, leaving families vulnerable to waterborne diseases and limiting access to sufficient clean water for drinking, cooking, sanitation, and agriculture. Women and children bear the greatest burden, often spending hours collecting water, reducing the time available for education, livelihood activities, and family care. 

The water crisis is directly linked to growing food insecurity and poor nutrition. Limited water supplies restrict agricultural production, making it difficult for families to grow crops and maintain healthy diets. Combined with inadequate sanitation and hygiene facilities, these challenges continue to undermine health, livelihoods, and community resilience. 

Despite these difficulties, the community remains committed to creating lasting change. Plans to construct and rehabilitate wells, improve sanitation facilities, establish community-managed water committees, and promote climate-smart agriculture offer a pathway toward a healthier and more sustainable future. Local participation and ownership will be critical to ensuring long-term success. 

However, the need is urgent. Without immediate financial support, the community will remain trapped in a cycle of unsafe water, poor health, and limited economic opportunity. Additional resources are urgently required to fund safe water infrastructure, sanitation improvements, agricultural training, and community resilience initiatives. Every contribution brings Anghaqueno closer to a future where clean water is not a daily struggle but a basic reality, enabling families to thrive with dignity, health, and hope.