Ladies Day

Yesterday was International Women's Day. This event began in 1908 in Europe to address social and political issues involving women in the West, but has today is rallying cry for empowerment and upholding the dignity of women in the developing world.  The challenges facing women in rural Southern Ethiopia are profound.  For a number of reasons, women shoulder the burden (literally) of obtaining water for their families. One of the most significant effects this can have is a condition called Obstetric Fistula which can be caused by carrying water and firewood during childhood.  (Read the link to understand this incredible tragedy)

Generally speaking, lack of access to clean water is one area of poverty that affects women disproportionately. Is this just a necessity since men are often engaged in other activities like farming, unable to assist in retrieving water? Or have women been subjected to a more difficult task because they are devalued by their husbands or other men in their culture?  Probably both, unfortunately.  While we seek to improve access to water, we hope to inspire certain values, like the equality of all people and the blessing offered to a society that respects women because they made in God's image.  The issue of water gives so many opportunities to address other problems facing a community.  We hope to take advantage of these opportunities with every well we sponsor.