March 22 is the World Water Day.
SI/E members should remember that safe drinking water is a basic human right.
In our part of the world and in many European countries, we have too much water, the Central East European countries have enough water, but it is often too dirty to use, and our African sisters have to little water and sometimes no water at all.
We should consider that every morning when we flush the toilet, brush our teeth or take a shower, that we have a luxury and convenient life. 1.1 billion people, mostly in the developing countries lack access to clean water. 2.6 billion lack of access to basic sanitation.
That is why “Soroptimists Go for Water”, all single Clubs and Unions are encouraged to develop projects related to water and sanitation, and to create awareness through different activities. Your club can develop projects; you also can join existing water projects and the Unions can join a larger project to make our dream come true to halve the number of people without water and basic sanitation.
The SI/E website: www.soroptimistsgoforwater.nl will give you a good insight, what kind of water project can be developed or supported. The PEP – Project Exchange Pool is the best opportunity to join a wonderful and worthwhile project.
We hope that the all clubs in the 57 countries of our Federation will be inspired by the theme of our President Mariet Verhoef–Cohen and will join forces in water and sanitation projects.
Use the World Water Day to create Awareness and take Action.
Gertraud Pichler
SI/E Coordinator Environment