A Rotary-led partnership has brought safe drinking water to nearly 800 people in a remote village in Myanmar's Karen State, reducing the threat of deadly waterborne diseases and creating a sustainable, community-managed solution for future generations. In a region where clean water can mean the difference between health and illness, this project is not simply providing water – it is helping to secure a healthier future for an entire community.
In the remote, mountainous terrain of Karen State, Myanmar (Burma) a life changing transformation is underway. For the first time a village has access to safe drinking water.
Thanks to a collaborative effort of Rotary Clubs of Hawthorn, Nhill, Central Melbourne, Greater Dandenong, Endeavour Hills and Phutaluang (Thailand), working alongside Disaster Aid Australia, Disaster Aid Thailand and local Karen communities to a Skyhydrant water filtration system was installed in the village. The project was delivered with the support of a Rotary Foundation District Grant.
The village had relied on a nearby stream that failed to meet World Health Organisation standards for safe drinking water. Health workers reported frequent outbreaks of waterborne illnesses, particularly during the rainy season, affecting both children and adults. Children under five are particularly vulnerable to waterborne diseases, making access to clean water a critical public health priority. Access to healthcare and medical supplies remains limited and urgent in Karen State.
Delivering the project was far from straightforward. Ongoing conflict in the region and hazardous mountain roads made transporting equipment difficult and potentially dangerous. Large loads could not be moved safely, so equipment and personnel travelled by motorbike whenever conditions allowed.
A key member of the project team, Fleur Maidment from the Rotary Club of Central Melbourne, personally transported the SkyHydrant filtration unit to a secure location near the village. Fleur also delivered essential water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) training to local staff, helping ensure the system could be operated and maintained effectively.
The Karen refugee community in Nhill, Australia has been the heart of the advocacy for improved health outcomes in their homeland. As part of the commitment, their community in Nhill participated in fundraising efforts alongside Rotarians from Hawthorn and Nhill to raise the money needed to match the Rotary Foundation District grant. The main fundraiser was a special dinner in Nhill for local and visiting Rotarians and partners showcasing Karen food and dancing.
The chosen technology, a SkyHydrant water filter, is a robust piece of equipment invented in Australia that can supply up to 10,000 litres of safe water daily for up to 1,000 people. It is designed to last up to 10 years without requiring a replacement filter unit. In addition to delivering clean water, it helps reduce dependence on bottled water and environment impact of plastic waste, provide a long-term solution that also protects the environment by reducing the need for plastic water bottles. Sustainability has been central to the project's design. The village has elected and trained local caretakers who will serve as WASH ambassadors, ensuring the system continues to operate effectively and that safe hygiene practices are promoted throughout the community.
To further strengthen local capacity and to ensure the water filtration system remains functional long after the system is installed, Safe Water for Every Child, Disaster Aid Australia and Disaster Aid Thailand will provide additional training in October 2026. Together, these efforts will help the community to be self-sufficient, healthier be more climate resilient.
This project demonstrates the power of Rotary partnerships, community leadership and sustainable technology to create lasting change. In a region facing significant hardship, access to safe water is doing more than preventing disease – it is providing hope, dignity and opportunity for generations to come.