PROJECTS
Our members focus on WASH-related projects in impact areas that span the globe, and we are able to share best practices and other resources with each other and other Rotary clubs. Our club has endeavored to take on a comprehensive WASH in SCHOOLS (WinS) project and Global Grant through the Rotary Foundation and our Rotary District 9980.
Traditional leaders meet the Rotarians at a school.
WASH IN SCHOOLS: NIGERIA
Nigeria is an interesting and challenging country. They now have a population of 191 million people, and the largest economy in Africa. At the same time, Nigeria has the second highest rate of open defecation in the world. That is a lot of poop!
Typical village street in Nigeria.
There are many pieces to a WinS Global Grant application. The Rotary Foundation now requires a formal assessment be completed prior to submitting the application. Here is a link to information about assessments, and the recommended report format.
MOUs are required with each cooperating organization - in this case the on-the-ground implementing partner, and each school involved. The plan, budget and funding (the biggest challenge!) all need to be worked out.
We are delighted that District 9980 has offered to contribute $8,000 in DDF. This will be matched 100% by TRF. In addition we have fundraising from Procter & Gamble, H2O for Life, and other Rotary Clubs to help cross the finish line.
The schools we are working with don’t have safe water, nor toilets. Each school will have a WASH club set up, and a hygiene education program. The students and teachers are very excited about this program and can’t wait for things to get started.
Our partner district is Rotary District 9142. Each of the seven schools has been “adopted” by a local Rotary club. The Rotarians all speak english so if any of our club members would like to correspond with Rotarians involved in the project, just let me know.
We also have a WhatsApp group for the team working on the project - an effective way to communicate with members spread all over the world!
Any questions, please contact Rotarian Nancy Gilbert at nancy.gilbert@transforminternational.org