Clean Water Makes it Possible For a Man with HIV/AIDS to Take His Medication

Meet Acaye Christopher, a spirited 63-year-old man who was diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and living with unsafe water in a Uganda. Like many in his village, Acaye used to rely on a local waterhole as their only water source. Small tadpole-like organisms infested the waterhole, making it unsafe to drink. This meant the villagers were constantly getting sick with water-borne illnesses like typhoid.

Living with HIV/AIDS and Unsafe Water in Africa

Christopher was first diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 2003 and takes an ARV medication that requires water. On rainy days, the water from the waterhole became contaminated. The contamination forced him to skip his medication.This affected his health, leading to frequent illnesses. Doctors recommended water purification tablets, but he had no money to pay for them.

When Drop in the Bucket drilled a well in the village, everything changed for Christopher. The village now had clean safe water from the new borehole well and Christopher and the other villagers no longer had to worry about contaminated water. He now takes his medication on time and never has to worry about the water he is drinking.

This positive change has rejuvenated Christopher’s life. He’s back to tending his crops and enjoying his improved health. He actively participates in the village savings group and proudly states that he is a member of the committee that manages the new well. Christopher works hard to keep the area surrounding the well clean.

How Clean Water Can Transform a Village in Africa

Christopher’s story is an example of how clean water access can bring joy and health to a community. Christopher is determined not to let HIV/AIDS threaten his life, and he feels the same about unsafe water. Thanks to the new well, Christopher and his village are embracing a brighter, healthier future.