The Global Water Crisis: Shocking Statistics & Why Clean Water Matters
Water is essential for life, yet millions of people around the world still struggle to access clean and safe drinking water. While many of us take running water for granted, the reality is that one in four people worldwide lack access to safe drinking water.
The Shocking Reality of Water Scarcity
2.2 billion people—nearly a third of the global population—do not have access to safely managed drinking water. (UNICEF & WHO)
Every two minutes, a child dies from a water-related disease caused by contaminated water and poor sanitation. (UNICEF)
Over 1 billion people rely on unsafe drinking water sources such as rivers, lakes, and unprotected wells. (World Health Organization)
Women and children in many parts of Africa and Asia spend an average of 6 hours every day fetching water instead of going to school or working. (UNICEF)
50% of hospital beds worldwide are filled with people suffering from waterborne diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid. (World Water Council)
By 2050, global water demand is expected to increase by 55%, worsening water scarcity issues in many regions. (United Nations)
Why Water Wells Are Essential – Even When Rivers Exist
Many people wonder why water wells are needed in areas where rivers, lakes, or other water sources are present. The truth is, these natural water sources are often highly contaminated with bacteria, parasites, and pollutants, making them unsafe for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
Protection from Contaminants – Rivers and lakes are exposed to human waste, animal contamination, industrial runoff, and harmful bacteria that cause life-threatening illnesses. Water wells provide a protected source of naturally filtered groundwater, reducing the risk of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery.
Reliable Water Access – Rivers dry up seasonally, and their flow depends on rainfall. Wells provide a steady water supply year-round, ensuring that communities have consistent access to safe water.
Convenience & Safety – Fetching water from distant rivers is often dangerous, time-consuming, and physically exhausting, especially for women and children. A well within a community brings water closer to homes, schools, and farms, eliminating long and risky journeys.
Sustainable Water Source – Deep water wells tap into underground aquifers, which provide clean, fresh water with minimal contamination. With proper construction and maintenance, a water well can last for decades, supporting generations of families.
This is why African Well focuses on building deep, sustainable water wells in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Nigeria, Niger, and Chad, ensuring that communities have a safe, reliable, and clean water source for years to come.
A Water Well Can Change Everything
Access to clean drinking water is a basic human right, yet millions are still living without it.
Health: Clean water prevents deadly waterborne diseases and improves overall public health.
Education: Children can attend school instead of spending hours collecting water.
Economic Growth: Families can work and earn a living rather than struggle to find water daily.
Food & Agriculture: Access to water improves farming, irrigation, and food security.
At African Well, we are committed to providing clean water to those who need it most. With your support, we can build water wells in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Nigeria, Niger, and Chad, helping thousands of families gain access to clean water for years to come.
Take Action – Build a Water Well Today
Gift a water well in honor of a loved one
Sponsor a water well project and transform an entire community
Join our mission to fight the global water crisis
Every drop counts. Join us today and be the reason someone gets access to clean water.
