At the heart of the project is Vaatjie Mor Primary School, which is attended by around 170 children. The initial situation was dire: there was no access to clean drinking water – a prerequisite that is crucial for both education and health.
From need to solution
The project idea is clear and typical of Rotary’s commitment: not just providing short-term help, but creating a functioning, sustainable solution – and doing so together. Several districts from different countries, including Angola, Namibia and Western South Africa, as well as Arizona and the US states of Arizona and Vermont, were involved. Under the leadership of Rotary Salzburg-International, several Austrian clubs were involved: Rotary Salzburg-International, Salzburg-St. Ruprecht, Zell am See, Gmunden, Wels-Burg, Rattenberg and Innsbruck-Alpin.
In this specific case, this means:
- Installation of a water treatment plant
- Implementation via a Rotary Global Grant
- International cooperation, including with partners in southern Africa
This ensures that the supply is not only secured in the short term but remains stable in the long term.
Water is more than just infrastructure; water means life
Clean water is far more than a technical issue. It directly influences everyday school life:
- Children can attend lessons regularly
- Health risks from contaminated water are reduced
- Schools become safe places to learn
This is a fundamental improvement, particularly in regions where water scarcity shapes everyday life. International Rotary experience shows that such projects have a particularly lasting impact when they are implemented with long-term support and local involvement.
Rotary international cooperation in action
This project exemplifies the working methods of many Rotary clubs worldwide:
a specific problem is identified, partners are brought on board, and funding and implementation are carried out jointly.
Whether in South Africa or elsewhere in the world – access to clean water is one of Rotary’s key areas of focus. Projects such as this one impressively demonstrate how this ethos is put into practice internationally.
