Behind the 10th WWF, This Village in Bali Once Lacked Access to Clean Water
Residents of Kedisan Village, Bangli during the inauguration of the clean water access program, Thursday, May 16, 2024 (ist).
Amidst the excitement of Bali hosting the 10th World Water Forum (WWF) in 2024, there remains a village on the island that previously lacked access to clean water. However, this has changed thanks to the Bali Women Crisis Centre Legal Aid Institute (LBH BWCC) and full support from the Australian Consulate General in Bali.
On Thursday, May 16, 2024, they officially launched the “Water for Life” program in Kedisan Village, Kintamani District, Bangli Regency, Bali. This program aims to provide sustainable access to clean water to improve the quality of life and health of the local community.
The inauguration was attended by various stakeholders, including local government officials, village authorities, beneficiaries, and local residents. Jo Stevens, the Australian Consul General in Bali, stated in her speech, “Through the Direct Aid Program, we support the LBH BWCC project ‘Water for Life in Kedisan.”
“This project helps remote village communities access clean water easily and empowers women who previously had to walk long distances to fetch water,” she said on Thursday, May 16, 2024.
The program involves the construction of dug wells, installation of water pumps, water storage facilities, and a distribution pipe network reaching the homes of the beneficiaries.
Ni Nengah Budawati, the director of LBH BWCC, explained that the program targets 20 beneficiary households with an installation system that ensures easy and efficient access to clean water.
One of the beneficiaries, Ni Wayan Rasmini, expressed her gratitude. “We are very grateful for this assistance because the water problem in our village is finally resolved. Previously, residents had to walk far to find water sources or buy water and collect rainwater. Now, having clean water is very helpful to us,” she said.
LBH BWCC also provides education on the importance of water hygiene and sanitation through Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) training. Community-based clean water facility management is also conducted to ensure the program's sustainability and effectiveness, involving women as the main managers.
The “Water for Life” program in Kedisan is a tangible example of how community-based projects can provide significant benefits, especially for women and the overall well-being of the community. This project not only provides access to clean water but also empowers local communities in managing their water resources.
Meanwhile, amidst the 10th WWF event, the emergence of the water life program sponsored by the Australian Consulate General seems to ‘slap’ the local Bali government, whose presence is questioned. Especially since clean water is urgently needed by residents, particularly in Kedisan Village, Bangli. (Tri Widiyanti)