Life for Relief and Development USA (LIFE)’s Well Construction Secures Clean Water and Restores Dignity to Vulnerable Communities in Afghanistan

As we witness increasing global shifts in climate change, population growth and economic development, the growing demand on basic supplies in many countries cannot be ignored. For some countries, these issues are exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure resulting in the inability to meet the needs of its population.  

One of these countries is Afghanistan. Having experienced significant population growth over the past few decades, the country’s facilities and infrastructure, specifically concerning access to water, remains insufficient. As a result, approximately half the population - 23.7 million people – exist in a state of deprivation and poverty, requiring humanitarian assistance to survive. 

As for those who face severe water shortages, the number is even higher, with an estimated 33 million people struggling with water insecurity. With limited water storage and distribution systems serving the nation, many Afghans rely on direct access to rivers or other natural sources. However, the responsibility of fetching this water tends to fall on vulnerable women and children, putting a significant strain on their time, energy and health. 

 This especially has a profound impact on young children. Burdened with the responsibility of providing essential water for their family’s survival, many children miss important schooling and eventually drop out early. Furthermore, the water fetched is frequently unsafe for consumption, resulting in vulnerable members of the community succumbing to illnesses that stem from waterborne diseases.   

This is a sad reality faced by a huge majority of those living in Afghanistan. In fact, only about 28% of the population are estimated to have access to safely managed drinking water services.

To support those most vulnerable to water insecurity, Life for Relief and Development USA (LIFE) carried out the construction of a 70-meter water well between August 12 to August 23, 2025, in Janda Khil Kaly, Nangarhar province, Afghanistan. Securing a safe and reliable water supply for an underserved village of approximately 119 beneficiaries, LIFE’s water well directly impacted the lives of 34 men, 29 women, and 56 children.  

This sustainable water source provided essential relief to vulnerable families in the community, particularly improving the lives of the women and children. Access to a nearby, clean, and reliable water source has considerably lightened their daily workload, reducing the time and physical effort that was required to collect water from distant or unsafe sources.  

Another significant impact has been on the health of community members. No longer reliant upon unsanitary water sources, beneficiaries have already noticed an improvement in their overall wellbeing. Previously, families experienced frequent and prolonged illnesses, yet the availability of clean water has improved sanitation and hygiene practices, naturally contributing to better health outcomes across the community. 

Your donations along with LIFE’s water well project have truly transformed the lives of those who otherwise would have been forgotten. The journey to fetch water for these vulnerable individuals has been a test of one’s dedication and commitment. According to one resident, Zarwali, the route taken by these women included “ditches filled with water, so deep that children couldn’t cross”. Covered in muddy water, many women would slip and fall as they returned to their village.  

While your donations provided these individuals with life-affirming clean drinking water, they have received much more. Dignity and honor are the priceless byproducts that have come about due to your generosity.