Cambodia: Wells and water supply for 45 villages

In the province of Kampot, southwest of Phnom Penh, there is a shortage of almost everything. Drinking water is scarce, and many families are starving. But it's also clear that once a start has been made towards a better life, people regain hope.

Chim, nine years old, is happy: He no longer has to haul water for his family from the pond far outside the village. He also no longer has to fear drowning like a boy from the neighborhood. And he has more time for school and playing. The reason: For a year now, his village, Snay Anhchit, has had a well. It is one of 45 villages in the Kampot province supported by the organization COCD*, the BMZ**, the logistics company Hellmann, and Terre des Hommes .

So far, ten wells have been drilled and more than 80 households supplied with four 1,000-liter containers. This includes Long Savry's family, who now collect rainwater to help them through periods of drought. Previous droughts have already destroyed harvests and thus the livelihoods of many families. To help these families, self-help groups have been established in all 45 villages, providing loans – for example, for vegetable gardening, chicken farming, or house repairs. This supports families in building a stable income – which ultimately benefits the children. Like Chim, who can now learn, play, and simply be a child instead of carrying water.