WaterColombiaVIKAP

This project focuses on climate-adaptive drinking water supply and general water management in the suburban regions of Pasto in Colombia. The aim is to provide the population of these regions with access to clean and safe drinking water.

In the suburban region of Pasto, more than 70% of communities depend on contaminated drinking water, which poses significant health risks. Climate change is exacerbating this situation by increasing pollution of water sources. The project aims to install innovative solar-powered Q-Drop drinking water purification systems in nine communities, resulting in the reliable production of high-quality drinking water for approximately 10,400 people. In addition to installing these Q-Drop systems, educational materials, awareness campaigns, and train-the-trainers programs on the theme of water, hygiene, and sanitation will also be developed and implemented. In-depth interviews and focus groups with key figures within the communities are being used to investigate which communication and implementation strategies are effective in the rural context in order to bring about behavioral change.

Cooperation with local partners and knowledge transfer are crucial for the sustainability of the project. This will lead to a reduction of 261 tons of CO2 emissions per year and improved health and well-being of the local population. Howest is involved for our expertise in behavioral change.