Empowering Change: The Future of Sustainable Water Access in Ethiopia
Published: Feb 7, 2025 Reading time: 3 minutes Share: Share an articleAccess to clean water is more than a necessity, it’s a lifeline and a cornerstone of health, dignity, and development. Yet, in Ethiopia nearly 33% of rural water schemes are non-functional and millions of people -- particularly those living in rural areas – face daily challenges when it comes to securing safe water. For this reason, we helped provide training to 105 professionals so that they have the skills necessary to maintain water supply systems and ensure access to safe drinking water for their communities.
Despite 65% of households having access to improved water sources, the sector is plagued by malfunctions, a lack of skilled technicians, and insufficient maintenance systems. In order to address these challenges, more people need to be trained, additional sustainable systems need to be installed and there must be a commitment to transforming water access overall. Only then is a future possible where every community member has access to safe water.
Transforming Lives Through Training and Empowerment
Over the past 45 days, 105 professionals were trained in electromechanical and water supply systems. These graduates now hold the tools and knowledge necessary to ensure that communities have consistent and reliable access to clean water.
For Bezawit Fiseha, one of the graduates, this training was more than just a course it was a life-changing opportunity.
She also expressed how this experience inspired her to lead by example.
Building the Foundations for a Sustainable Future
The journey wasn’t just about learning technical skills but also about empowerment. The trainees were equipped with both practical and theoretical knowledge, giving them the ability to maintain rural water schemes and contribute to a more sustainable future. The impact of their work will ensure access to safe drinking water and a sense of resilience in underserved communities for years to come.
The graduates’ success was made possible by the commitment of dedicated partners, instructors and community supporters who ensured that every participant received the guidance and mentorship that they needed. Bezawit reflected,
Supporting Technical, Vocational and Education Training (TVET) colleges by establishing standard workshops, enhancing instructors' skills, and fostering strong networks among water sector authorities is crucial to sustaining water schemes in Ethiopia's rural areas. This is why we helped 105 trainees graduate from short-term courses in the water supply and electromechanical sectors at four TVET colleges. However, this is just the beginning.
It is our sincere hope that the stories of the recent graduates inspire those around them and act as a testament to the power of education when it comes to inspiring real change.
This work was made possible through the funding and support of the Czech Development Agency, whose commitment to sustainable development continues to inspire transformative change in Ethiopia's rural communities.
