CWS and local partner Fundacion Siwok worked with two communities in Argentina’s Chaco region to build wells.
Photo: Fundacion Siwok
While South America’s Gran Chaco region is prone to drought – stretches of up to nine months with no rainfall may happen – there are underground water sources in the region. With the right equipment and training, indigenous communities can access the water that’s beneath their feet.
The Wichi have historically been hunter-gatherers. Due to the rapid deforestation affecting the Gran Chaco region – an average of 500 U.S. football fields are razed daily – Wichi communities now live in extreme poverty. Land rights are key. CWS is proud to work alongside indigenous communities as they gain back what is rightfully theirs. Many Wichi communities have gained legal title to their ancestral lands with advocacy assistance from Week of Compassion and CWS. They are preserving the forest while developing alternative sources of food security. Having reliable access to water remains a crucial need in order for families to live healthy lives.
Recently, CWS worked with local partner Fundacion Siwok in two communities to construct new wells. One new well was installed in the town of Misión Chaqueña, where it was built on the compound of the late Pastor Marcelino Rojas, a well-respected leader. Digging the well was a team effort; local authorities even participated to expedite the process. The other well, in the town of Hickman, ensures that water now reaches the Wichi communities on the margins of the town.
Owners of the new wells are responsible for digging the holes. Thanks to your support, CWS can provide technology and tools to reach the precious water, often more than 75 feet or more beneath the surface.
Our partnership is putting political pressure on local governmental agencies to follow suit and some are now copying the model we’ve helped to develop. Now the Wichi have a seat at the table where they can offer input on water issues that affect their lives, all because of your support.