In remote landscapes, water access doesn’t automatically mean water safety. Families often rely on a mix of wells, tanks and surface water where quality can be very different from one household to the next. Testing these water sources help to understand where the risks are and what simple steps reduce them. Just as importantly, shared testing and clear communication help strengthen healthy water habits over the long term.
During our water quality campaign, our team assessed sources in 2 complementary ways.
Community-based rapid testing
First, we ran a simple “citizen science” activity during household visits. We asked people what they thought about their water quality and whether they wanted to know more. We then used easy-to-use test strips that provide quick indications of certain parameters through a colour chart.
These strip tests are not a substitute for laboratory analysis, but they are very useful for two reasons:
- They provide immediate feedback and spark practical conversations.
- They help communities recognise when water may be unsafe and when follow-up testing or safer handling is needed.
Comprehensive water samples at key sites
Secondly, our team assessed water quality more comprehensively in some key sites at the local school, in a restaurant, at the river and some community households). They were sent to the lab for microbiological analysis. Overall, the findings highlight that certain sources were contaminated with some coliforms and E. Coli. In conclusion, there is a need for improved water storage and practices.
Some good habits are:
- Protect clean sources.
- Clean and disinfect storage systems regularly.
- Set up routine monitoring.
- Boiling water before consuming.
