The Highlands region has a long tradition of tribal fighting that has accelerated in recent years, severely damaging development in the area. Tribal fighting has prevented investment in basic services, many teachers, nurses and government staff moved away from the area and many families moved away temporarily to safer areas, dislocating them from the land that is their livelihood.
The Oxfam Water for Survival Program is working with local groups in the Highlands to build new water supplies and sanitary toilets and to deliver health education.
Schools, hospitals and aid posts are targeted as key areas where impact can be greatest. Students will have clean drinking water and toilets meaning less sick days away from school. Hospitals and aid posts will have hygienic facilities including running water and toilets for mothers giving birth and for the treatment of common illnesses.
Providing safe water not only meets a crucial need but also brings former enemies to work together in the construction and management of their new water supplies and toilets.
