Water is a fundamental human right and a crucial resource for sustainable development. In many parts of the world, access to clean and safe water is a major challenge, affecting the lives of millions of people, particularly women and girls. As an organization committed to advancing inclusive development, IDC recognizes the importance of addressing global water challenges to promote local transformation, social justice, and self-reliance.
In drilling for water, IDC adopts best practices that prioritize sustainability, equity, and inclusion. This involves engaging local communities in the planning and implementation of water projects, while recognizing and valuing indigenous knowledge. IDC also promotes the use of appropriate technologies in water development, such as deep wells, shallow wells, and gravity flow schemes, depending on the specific needs of the community. These technologies are not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly, promoting sustainability.
In water supply systems, IDC prioritizes the needs of marginalized groups, such as women and girls, in promoting gender-sensitive and disability-inclusive strategies. This involves ensuring that water sources are easily accessible, safe, and reliable, while also promoting community participation in the maintenance of water systems. IDC also promotes the motorization of water supply systems, where appropriate, to increase efficiency and reliability.
IDC has established WASH committees in several communities as part of its efforts to promote the safe water chain, good hygiene practices and ensure access to safe water and sanitation facilities. The committees are trained by IDC staff and work in close collaboration with local authorities. They also collect water-user fees and ensure appropriate financial management of user fees. The committees promote good WASH practices and are critical to the sustainability of IDC’s WASH interventions. Through community engagement and education, IDC has successfully established WASH committees that have transformed communities.
We recognize that access to clean and safe water is essential for promoting inclusive development and social justice. By adopting best practices in drilling, appropriate technologies in water development, community WASH engagement, and promoting gender-sensitive and disability-inclusive strategies in water supply, IDC effectively tackles global water challenges and promotes local transformation, social justice, and self-reliance.