Solar-Powered Well for a Health Clinic in Niger

Just under six months after community mobilization began in the village of Filima in Mali, a solar-powered water system was completed at the community health clinic. This water system has provided running water to four treatment and exam rooms in the clinic, allowing providers to follow regularly wash their hands and instruments and providing new mothers and their babies the dignity of a bath after delivery. In addition, this water system pumps water to six courtyard taps and a handwashing station that are accessible to all community members.

Thanks to your support, the medical staff at the Filima clinic are now able to follow hygiene protocols to prevent the spread of infection. Clean water in the labor and delivery facilities is enhancing the quality of care provided to pregnant and postpartum mothers and their infants. It also makes it possible for both mother and baby to have the dignity of a bath after delivery without being required to bring their own water to the clinic. Lastly, health care providers, patients, and their companions now have easy access to clean drinking water that just six months ago required a long walk to a distant well.

Access to water and other WASH (Water Sanitation and Hygiene) services will also encourage community members to visit the Filima health clinic for care. Convenient access to drinking water will reduce the burden of water collection for the local women and girls who will be able to devote their free time to school or income-generating activities.