Today is World Water Day, focusing on expediting efforts to address the global water and sanitation crisis. Since water is a fundamental need for everyone, it is essential that each one of us takes responsibility and takes action towards this cause.
In 2021 Redox commenced support for Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) to aid their critical global efforts. Our donations help enable the teams at MSF to respond promptly to emergencies and deliver superior medical care to those in dire need-no more important than clean, accessible water.
MSF operates in countries where access to water can mean the difference between life and death. Inadequate water results in crop failure and suffering, while excess water leads to natural calamities like floods, landslides, and epidemics. Clean water is crucial in preventing waterborne illnesses.
Sera James, a resident of Akello village, shares a laugh with her friends as she draws water from a pump MSF teams have just installed to improve the community’s access to clean water during the dry season. Pibor country, South Sudan, March 2022.
NJIIRI KARAGO/MSF
During times of crisis and disaster, the most vulnerable, such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, and displaced individuals, are usually the first to bear the brunt. In Afghanistan and Syria, people are cut off from water supplies. In contrast, the Sahel region’s lack of food and water exacerbates existing inequalities. Eastern Africa experiences relentless storms and cyclones, causing widespread destruction.
Humanitarian medical needs continue to grow in these regions, and climate crises are emerging as a new area of concern for aid organizations. Drought in Madagascar is leading to increased malnutrition, while frequent extreme weather events are destroying livelihoods in countries such as Malawi. Persistent flooding in South Sudan has resulted in a rise in malaria cases.
These crises are often intertwined, with water being the common denominator.
MSF teams try out a water pump as part of a bid to provide clean water and latrines to displaced people in Rho camp—Democratic Republic of Congo, December 2021.
ALEXIS HUGUET
Despite the challenges facing the world’s freshwater resources, there is still hope for a sustainable future. By taking action to conserve and manage our water resources, we can help ensure a future where clean and safe water is available to everyone. We can make a difference by adopting sustainable water practices in our daily lives, such as reducing water usage, fixing leaks, and using water-efficient appliances. Organizations and governments can also play a significant role by implementing policies and initiatives that promote sustainable water management. Let us take inspiration from World Water Day to work together towards a future where access to fresh water is a reality for all.
Join us in supporting the critical work of Médecins Sans Frontières by clicking here to donate. Your contribution will help MSF continue providing lifesaving care in emergencies and beyond, ensuring that vulnerable communities receive the help they need even after the headlines have faded.