For years, the people of Uhacae, Viqueque Municipality faced a daily struggle—one that many of us take for granted: access to clean water. Families walked long distances, carrying heavy containers, just to collect water for drinking, cooking, and washing. The situation was especially difficult for Mana Merita, a 28-year-old woman living with a disability, and a devoted mother of two.
The Daily Struggle for Water
Before the new water system was built, Mana Merita had to walk one kilometer to fetch water from a natural spring. The journey was exhausting, especially during the rainy season, when the path turned into mud and slippery trails. At times, flooding contaminated the water source, making it unsafe to drink. Collecting water from an open, unprotected source also posed health and safety risks, yet there was no other choice.
“I had to carry heavy buckets, each holding 5 liters of water, back and forth to keep my family going. It was a painful struggle, and I often worried about my children’s health,” she shared.
A Life-Changing Impact
Thanks to ADRA Timor-Leste, this struggle is now a thing of the past. A new water system was installed in the village, bringing safe, clean water directly to people’s homes. For Mana Merita, this has transformed her daily life and future.
“I am very lucky because ADRA brought water to my home. Now, I feel comfortable and safe. I can easily get water for drinking, cooking, washing, bathing, and even watering my vegetable garden,” she said with joy.
With water right at her doorstep, Mana Merita no longer has to carry heavy buckets over long distances. She can focus on growing her vegetable garden, which is now healthier than ever. She cultivates kankun, mustard, cassava, and corn, and with better irrigation, she can sell extra produce like mustard and spinach. The income helps her buy household necessities like salt, clothes, and school supplies for her children.
Bringing Water to the Community
The benefits of the new water system extend beyond individual homes—it is also changing lives at the local school. “Before, we had to get water from the river, which was far and unsafe during the floods,” said 13-year-old Graciana, a student at the village school. “Now, we have water at school! We can wash our hands, cook meals, and use the toilets properly. Thank you, ADRA-TL. With reliable water access, children no longer have to worry about unsafe drinking water or hygiene challenges. They can focus on learning and staying healthy.
A Brighter Future for Uhacae
The impact of clean water is immeasurable. It improves health, hygiene, education, livelihoods, and overall well-being. For the people of Uhacae, this project represents more than just a water system—it is a pathway to a better future.
Mana Merita and her family can now thrive without the daily burden of water collection. Children can attend school without fear of waterborne diseases, and farmers can grow sustainable crops to support their families.
With clean water comes hope, dignity, and opportunity. And for this, the people of Uhacae are forever grateful to ADRA Timor-Leste.
📍 ADRA is committed to ensuring communities have access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). Want to support projects like this? Learn more about our work at www.adraasia.org.
