Canadian non-profits partner with rural communities in Ethiopia

Run For Water and Mennonite Central Committee BC continue their partnership in 2023 to provide clean water for rural communities in Ethiopia.

Run For Water Director, Dean Dahl, and MCC BC Advancement Director, Jet Takaoka, returned from Ethiopia last week where they surveyed water projects in the Amhara region. This year, Run for Water will host three events in the Fraser Valley, Trail Run For Water – May 27, Run For Water – May 28, and Ride For Water – June 3 to raise funds to help the community of Jahana, Ethiopia drill a well which will serve over 1,000 families in the village and the surrounding area.

“The positive impacts of clean water for communities, especially women and children, cannot be overstated,” says Takaoka. “Health, income, physical safety, and social wellbeing all improve dramatically when people are able to get clean water out of a tap.”

In one of the villages visited, Jahana in the Amhara region, community members have pooled savings to begin the development of a water system, comprised of a simple bore hole well and a hand pump. Dahl observed, “The community is determined to do what they can with their limited resources to help themselves. Their determination is absolutely inspiring.” 

Run For Water and MCC BC are excited to support the people of Jahana to ensure the completion of this vital work! Run For Water events this year will raise the funds needed to complete the water project in Jahana. Hundreds of families will soon have clean water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene for the first time!

“You are hearing our wish!” says Akalu Bitew, a member of the community who has lived his entire life longing for clean water.

For over 50 years, MCC has collaborated with local partners in Ethiopia – a country where as many as 100 million people cannot access clean water. Run For Water is in its 16th year raising funds alongside Ethiopian communities for water and education projects. Caring and compassionate people from Abbotsford, the Fraser Valley, and beyond have made these projects possible.

Dahl remarks that none of these water projects could have happened without a supportive community: “You have been an important part of this partnership over the years. A heartfelt thank you for running, biking, fundraising, donating, educating, and journeying alongside us through the years. We cannot wait to see you on the racecourse in May!”