The Joy of Water

In the northern Afghan city of Khanabad, clean drinking water was in short supply for a long time. Many families drew their water from open canals or the river – with devastating consequences for their health. Diarrhoea, skin diseases and other infections were part of everyday life.

With the support of Welthungerhilfe, a water supply system has been set up in recent years. A central cistern now feeds several pipes that lead into the houses. For the first time, drinking water is flowing from the tap in Khanabad – an inconspicuous piece of metal that is a symbol of progress for the people here.

However, access to water is not free. Every household has a meter and pays according to consumption. This is to ensure that the system is maintained and that awareness of the value of water grows. For many residents, the tap outside their front door is more than just a technical achievement – it represents security, dignity and the hope for a healthier future. | Afghanistan

Report on water supply in the region: The Curse of the Water