Transforming Water and Sanitation in Haiti: A Rotary Initiative

Rotary International is making significant strides in transforming water and sanitation systems in Haiti. The Collaboration for Sustainable Water and Sanitation Systems in Haiti is driven by Rotarians like Barb Kuesters, who are committed to implementing sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene solutions. This initiative focuses on providing clean water to communes in Haiti and beyond, leveraging a systems-based approach that emphasizes demand creation and effective management of water systems.

The Heart of the Effort: Handwash Initiative

At the heart of this effort is Handwash, the Haiti National Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Initiative. Handwash was established by Rotarians in District 7020, which covers Caribbean and North American Rotary clubs. The initiative began in response to Haiti's vulnerability to natural and social shocks, seeking to strengthen the sustainability of humanitarian responses to such crises.

Strategic Collaborations and Goals

The collaboration with Haiti Outreach and the Rotary Foundation Program of Scale is pivotal. One of the key aspects of the model, as Barb Kuesters explained, involves "creating demand for and good management of water systems," focusing on building resilient infrastructure and ensuring collective action with local governments.

Personal Commitment and Impact

Barb Kuesters, a member of the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch, Florida, shared her motivation, stating, "I wanted to be the district governor who really understood Rotary well," reflecting on her past experiences on international missions and the unique opportunities Rotary provides to make a difference. With previous involvement in Rotoplast and other global missions, Barb has seen firsthand the impact of collective action in communities worldwide.

Building Local Leadership and Future Steps

An essential part of this initiative, according to Kuesters, is recognizing the local capacity for leadership within the communes. This initiative serves as a powerful reminder of Rotary's role in fostering local leadership and aligning development efforts with governmental policies. By addressing water and sanitation needs comprehensively, Rotary aims not only to improve health outcomes but also to promote peace and stability in Haiti.

For those interested in supporting Rotary's humanitarian efforts or to learn more about joining, visit rotary.org.

Listen to the full interview: https://open.spotify.com/episode/46B7vfjcaJw85Vwc4nyEZs?si=vtu_aBlvR1CaVhOqFBOqPw