Improving Access to Clean Water for Cotton Communities
As part of its social responsibility initiatives, Ivoire Coton continues to take action to improve the daily lives of cotton farming communities. During the 2022-2023 growing season, the company focused efforts on providing access to clean drinking water for villages without reliable sources.
In partnership with Cotton Made in Africa and the Reinhart Foundation, a total of seven new human-powered hydraulic pumps (HPHPs) were installed across seven villages lacking access to portable water. The combined investment of 64,086,999 CFA Francs benefited 3,198 residents, with Cotton Made in Africa contributing 39,029,442 CFA Francs, the Reinhart Foundation 6,559,570 CFA Francs, and Ivoire Coton 18,497,987 CFA Francs.
The villages receiving the new HPHPs were Nambé, Ouatireguekaha, Konatevogo, Titogo 2, Koungbéni, Zandougou, and Kartenekaha. In each locality, a water point management committee (COGEPE) was established, with members trained on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) concepts. The committees, comprised mainly of women with a few men providing maintenance expertise, ensure the pumps are properly operated and maintained.
Mrs. BAMBA Rokia, a community matron and president of the women’s group in Zandougou, expressed gratitude: “We had difficulty accessing quality water in sufficient quantity for our household needs and consumption. The only source was 3KM from the village and shared with animals – a source of diarrheal diseases.”
By installing these HPHPs, Ivoire Coton has reduced cases of waterborne illnesses and long treks to collect water from unsanitary sources. Healthier communities can be more productive in the cotton fields while saving on medical costs. The official handover ceremony for the Reinhart Foundation’s pump in Kartenekaha took place on August 11th.
Through initiatives like this, Ivoire Coton reinforces its commitment to the wellbeing of the cotton farming communities who are vital to their operations. Access to clean water is a basic human necessity that unlocks better health and economic prospects.
By Dr. KEME Didier
Occupational Doctor
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