By Jaime Enrique Muñoz Hernández | Asociación Fénix, Nicaragua
Carmen Zambrana stands with her new water faucet. Photo courtesy of Asociación Fénix.
The families of the San Miguel community, located on Zapatera Island in Nicaragua, have always relied on Lake Cocibolca (or Lake Nicaragua) for water despite its high levels of contamination. The lake is the largest in Central America.
Several rivers flow into this lake, which, as they journey through communities and cities, they collect waste generated by agriculture, livestock, as well as domestic and industrial waste.
This problem is the result of a lack of environmental awareness amongst the populations located near the rivers and beaches. It is common for garbage to end up in the lake, which poses a risk to human health and the lake’s habitat.
The winter period is the most critical time for the island’s families. Due to soil erosion, and the large amount of sediment, the water turns brown, making it very difficult to consume it.
However, in the San Miguel community this situation has changed. They now have a solar-powered drinking water system that guarantees access to clean and safe water for all households.
The families now enjoy the benefit of having quality water in their homes, and no longer have to transport water from the lake.
This solar-powered drinking water system was built by Asociación Fénix with community participation and financial support from the Presbyteriam Hunger Program. A community committee manages the upkeep and maintenance of the system.
The work of the Presbyterian Hunger Program is possible thanks to your gifts to One Great Hour of Sharing.