Over 11,800 community members and 3,060 registered children have experienced life-changing improvements through World Vision’s Shewula Area Programme (AP). The programme, funded by the Japan support office, has made significant strides in improving access to clean water and sanitation in the Shewula area, under Lomahasha Inkhundla.
Transforming Lives Through Clean Water
World Vision’s focus on water access has been central to the Shewula AP, addressing one of the community’s most pressing needs. Over the course of 16 years, the organization implemented projects that provided clean and safe drinking water, including the installation of new boreholes, which now serve 66% of households.
National Director of World Vision Eswatini, Tinah Mukunda, reflected on the transformation:
“Water is life, and we are proud that our work here in Shewula has contributed to the long-term health and well-being of this community. The increase in clean water access from 41% to 66% is a direct result of our commitment to sustainable development.”
Infrastructure Development Supporting SDG 6
The Ndzaweni East Water Project, one of the flagship initiatives, provided clean water to the community and was part of a broader effort by World Vision to support Eswatini in meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6). This goal calls for universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2030.
“World Vision’s water projects here in Shewula align perfectly with SDG 6, ensuring that more families have access to safe drinking water,” Mukunda said. “This progress will have lasting effects on the health and prosperity of future generations.”
A Community Empowered by Clean Water
The introduction of boreholes and other water infrastructure has not only improved daily life but has also empowered families in Shewula. Christina Mabila, a resident, shared how the access to clean water has transformed her household:
“Now, with the boreholes, I can maintain my garden and provide enough food for my 10 children. This water has changed our lives.”
Building a Healthier Future
In addition to water access, World Vision helped schools improve sanitation and hygiene, creating a healthier learning environment for children. These developments are part of World Vision’s broader effort to reduce waterborne diseases and improve the overall health of the community.
Phindile Mkhaliphi, a former teacher, commended the organization’s efforts:
“The sanitation improvements in our schools have had a major impact. Children are healthier, and they are learning in a safer environment thanks to World Vision.”
A Legacy of Change
As the Shewula AP concludes, the infrastructure left behind will continue to benefit the community for years to come. World Vision’s work in water access has laid a strong foundation for future growth, ensuring that Shewula remains on the path to sustainable development.
“This is the kind of lasting change we strive for,” Mukunda concluded. “The water access we’ve provided will continue to empower the Shewula community long after we’ve left.”