Today, the United Nations celebrates its 20th
annual World Water Day. Held on the 22nd of March each year, World Water Day emphasizes the importance of access to freshwater and the sustainable
management of water resources.
This year’s focus is water collaboration, as part of the UN’s year-long
theme; “In designating 2013 as the UN International Year of Water Cooperation,
the UNGA recognizes that cooperation is essential to strike a balance between
the different needs and priorities and share this precious resource equitably,
using water as an instrument of peace. Promoting water cooperation implies an
interdisciplinary approach bringing in cultural, educational and scientific
factors, as well as religious, ethical, social, political, legal, institutional
and economic dimensions.” (unwater.org).
With 783 million people lacking access to clean water, a growing
population, and diminishing resources, addressing the issue remains at the
forefront of the global development agenda.
Water cooperation is imperative, as effective water
management requires cooperation between multiple actors from a local to an
international scale. In addition, many of the world’s sources of fresh water—groundwater,
rivers, streams, etc.—cross political and territorial boundaries and must be
shared amongst people of different countries and cultures. Without cooperation,
access to water becomes uncertain, triggering adverse impacts on human lives
and economic systems.
Friends of Humanity understands the importance of safe,
accessible, sustainable water solutions. Through RIDS-Nepal, we aim to provide
villagers in the Jumla district of Nepal with potable drinking water through a
system of cement pipes, built in active partnership with local
communities. Providing access to
safe water is the final step in completing RIDS’s Family of Four project, which
enables 200 villagers to enjoy decent living conditions in terms of health and hygiene
while remaining self-sufficient.
To learn more about World Water Day 2013 and the theme of
Water Cooperation, click here.
To learn more about RIDS-Nepal and to donate to the project,
click here.
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