From Streams to Wells: Amigos International and Transforming Water Access in Uganda
divya Boopathi • January 22, 2025
Introduction
Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, but millions of people around the world, especially in rural areas, lack this essential resource. In Uganda, clean water scarcity is a persistent challenge, with many communities relying on contaminated sources and exposed to water-related diseases.
Aware of this problem, Amigos International has undertaken a number of initiatives to improve access to clean water in Uganda. Through the construction of deep wells, the implementation of rainwater harvesting systems and the promotion of hygiene practices, the organization is transforming the lives of thousands of people.
The water crisis in Uganda
Uganda, despite its abundant water resources, faces a serious drinking water crisis. Contamination of water sources due to agricultural and domestic activities, lack of adequate infrastructure and unequal distribution of water are some of the main challenges.
The consequences of this crisis are devastating:
- Diseases: Ingestion of contaminated water causes diseases such as cholera, dysentery and hepatitis, especially in children and the elderly.
- Malnutrition: Lack of clean water makes proper hygiene and the preparation of safe food difficult, contributing to malnutrition.
- Poverty: The search for clean water consumes a great deal of time and energy, limiting people's opportunities to engage in productive activities.
Amigos International: Providing Solutions
Amigos International has developed a comprehensive approach to address the water crisis in Uganda. The organization's projects focus on:
- Construction of deep wells: Drilling deep wells allows access to clean and safe sources of groundwater, ensuring a constant supply for communities.
- Rainwater harvesting systems: In regions with seasonal rainfall, rainwater harvesting is a complementary solution to supplement water supply.
- Health education: Promoting proper hygiene practices is critical to preventing water-related diseases and ensuring sustainable use of water resources.
- Empowering communities: Amigos International works closely with communities to ensure the sustainability of projects and encourage their participation in water management.
A Transformative Impact
Amigos International's clean water projects are having a significant impact on the lives of communities in Uganda:
- Improved health: Reductions in water-related diseases have significantly improved the health and well-being of communities.
- Increased productivity: Access to clean water has allowed people to spend more time on productive activities such as farming and trading.
- Empowering women: By reducing the workload of women, who are often responsible for collecting water, water projects contribute to their empowerment.
- Sustainable development: Access to clean water is essential for the sustainable development of communities, allowing for improved education, health and the economy.
A Sustainable Future
Amigos International is committed to building a sustainable future in Uganda. Through its clean water projects, the organization is not only transforming people's lives in the short term, but is also laying the foundation for long-term development.
How can you help?
There are many ways to support Amigos International's efforts:
- Donate: Your donation will allow more wells to be built, irrigation systems to be implemented and communities to be trained.
- Spread the word: Share this story with your Amigos and family and help us raise awareness about the importance of access to clean water.
- Volunteering: Join our volunteer teams and get involved in water projects in Uganda.
Together we can make a difference.
FAQs
How can I ensure that my donation is used for water projects in Uganda?
At Amigos International, transparency is key. You can visit our website to learn in detail how we use the funds we receive. In addition, we will provide you with an impact report detailing how your donation has contributed to improving access to water in beneficiary communities.
What other challenges do communities in Uganda face besides water scarcity?
Water scarcity is closely linked to other challenges such as poverty, food insecurity, lack of sanitation and poor health. These problems intertwine and hinder the sustainable development of communities.
How can I get involved as a volunteer in Amigos International water projects?
We appreciate your interest in volunteering! You can visit our website to find information about available volunteer opportunities, requirements and how to apply. You can also contact us directly for more details.
What role do women play in water management in rural communities in Uganda?
Women play a key role in water management in rural communities. They are primarily responsible for collecting water, preparing food and caring for the family. That is why our projects seek to empower women and provide them with the tools necessary to improve access to water and water resource management.
What are Amigos International's long-term goals regarding water access in Uganda?
Our long-term goal is to ensure that all communities in Uganda have access to safe water and sanitation in a sustainable way. We want to contribute to improving the health, education and economic development of these communities, and to build a more prosperous future for all.
Categories
A Permanent Endowment to Serve Children, Families, and the Gospel—Forever In a world where needs never stop, we must build solutions that never run dry. That’s the heart behind the John LaNoue Sr. Forever Fund , a permanent endowment hosted by HighGround Advisors and stewarded by Amigos Internacionales . This fund protects its principal forever and uses investment income to fuel long-term impact through water, education, health, and Gospel-centered outreach. This is more than a donation. It’s a legacy. And it’s needed now more than ever.
One Surgery. One Child. A Lifetime Transformed 15% of Ugandan children will require surgical care before age 18. Only a fraction ever receive it . Rural children are hit hardest : over 80% of cases are in remote villages. Almost half of surgical needs remain unmet . Cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) is common. These children suffer feeding challenges, risk of aspiration, chronic ear infections, and speech delay . Malnutrition is rampant : up to 68% of infants with CL/P in Uganda are undernourished; many remain ineligible for surgery due to frail health Untreated consequences : ongoing pain, family isolation, lifelong stigma, lost chances, and even school dropout . Yet the solution exists. Simple, safe surgery can restore wholeness. But time, resources, and access—especially in remote regions—are missing.
Discover why Burundi’s urgent health crisis demands action. Learn how Amigos Internacionales is launching MissionPoint mobile clinics to deliver maternal care, fight disease, and empower rural communities with compassionate, faith-driven outreach.
When we first met John Paul, his world was cloaked in darkness—literally and spiritually. Once a reader and active member of his community, John Paul had lost his vision due to a severe form of cataract that left him completely blind. He came to the Missionpoint Medical Camp in Uganda with a quiet hope, though years of living in darkness had nearly smothered it.
Discover the top African charities to donate to in 2025, led by Amigos Internacionales, empowering Uganda with meals, water, and education.
In the hills of Buhweju District in southwestern Uganda, the world had grown dim for 39-year-old John Paul Taremwa. Blinded in one eye by disease, and slowly losing vision in the other due to a cataract, John Paul lived on the edge of complete darkness. Each day became more difficult—navigating uneven paths, depending on others, feeling the slow erosion of dignity that comes when something as basic and vital as sight begins to slip away. At Amigos Internacionales, we believe that no one should have to live that way. Ours mission has never been about numbers or events—it’s about people like John Paul. We exist to restore hope through healing, to meet both physical and spiritual needs in places the world often forgets.
In a remote village in southwestern Uganda, a woman named Joy once faced the devastating possibility of permanent blindness. Last year, driven by deteriorating vision and rising desperation, she traveled many kilometers on foot to reach a government hospital in hopes of receiving cataract surgery. But the cost— 3,000,000 Ugandan shillings (approximately $800 USD )—was impossibly high. She returned home defeated. “I decided to forget about my left eye,” Joy shared. “And I prayed my right eye wouldn’t die.”
Learn how Amigos Internacionales tackles South Sudan’s water crisis with wells and aid. Join the fight against poverty today!
Discover the top 10 hunger relief charities of 2025, feeding millions in Africa with meals and sustainable solutions.
Discover surprising benefits of donating to charity. Learn how giving transforms your life and explore impactful work by Amigos Internacionales.
Explore the top 10 countries with the highest poverty rate in the world in 2025.
Learn about the crisis of hungry kids in Africa, its causes, & how to help. Support organizations making a difference and find out how you can contribute.
Social Media
A Permanent Endowment to Serve Children, Families, and the Gospel—Forever In a world where needs never stop, we must build solutions that never run dry. That’s the heart behind the John LaNoue Sr. Forever Fund , a permanent endowment hosted by HighGround Advisors and stewarded by Amigos Internacionales . This fund protects its principal forever and uses investment income to fuel long-term impact through water, education, health, and Gospel-centered outreach. This is more than a donation. It’s a legacy. And it’s needed now more than ever.
One Surgery. One Child. A Lifetime Transformed 15% of Ugandan children will require surgical care before age 18. Only a fraction ever receive it . Rural children are hit hardest : over 80% of cases are in remote villages. Almost half of surgical needs remain unmet . Cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) is common. These children suffer feeding challenges, risk of aspiration, chronic ear infections, and speech delay . Malnutrition is rampant : up to 68% of infants with CL/P in Uganda are undernourished; many remain ineligible for surgery due to frail health Untreated consequences : ongoing pain, family isolation, lifelong stigma, lost chances, and even school dropout . Yet the solution exists. Simple, safe surgery can restore wholeness. But time, resources, and access—especially in remote regions—are missing.
Discover why Burundi’s urgent health crisis demands action. Learn how Amigos Internacionales is launching MissionPoint mobile clinics to deliver maternal care, fight disease, and empower rural communities with compassionate, faith-driven outreach.
When we first met John Paul, his world was cloaked in darkness—literally and spiritually. Once a reader and active member of his community, John Paul had lost his vision due to a severe form of cataract that left him completely blind. He came to the Missionpoint Medical Camp in Uganda with a quiet hope, though years of living in darkness had nearly smothered it.
Discover the top African charities to donate to in 2025, led by Amigos Internacionales, empowering Uganda with meals, water, and education.
In the hills of Buhweju District in southwestern Uganda, the world had grown dim for 39-year-old John Paul Taremwa. Blinded in one eye by disease, and slowly losing vision in the other due to a cataract, John Paul lived on the edge of complete darkness. Each day became more difficult—navigating uneven paths, depending on others, feeling the slow erosion of dignity that comes when something as basic and vital as sight begins to slip away. At Amigos Internacionales, we believe that no one should have to live that way. Ours mission has never been about numbers or events—it’s about people like John Paul. We exist to restore hope through healing, to meet both physical and spiritual needs in places the world often forgets.
In a remote village in southwestern Uganda, a woman named Joy once faced the devastating possibility of permanent blindness. Last year, driven by deteriorating vision and rising desperation, she traveled many kilometers on foot to reach a government hospital in hopes of receiving cataract surgery. But the cost— 3,000,000 Ugandan shillings (approximately $800 USD )—was impossibly high. She returned home defeated. “I decided to forget about my left eye,” Joy shared. “And I prayed my right eye wouldn’t die.”
Learn how Amigos Internacionales tackles South Sudan’s water crisis with wells and aid. Join the fight against poverty today!
Discover the top 10 hunger relief charities of 2025, feeding millions in Africa with meals and sustainable solutions.
Discover surprising benefits of donating to charity. Learn how giving transforms your life and explore impactful work by Amigos Internacionales.
Explore the top 10 countries with the highest poverty rate in the world in 2025.
Learn about the crisis of hungry kids in Africa, its causes, & how to help. Support organizations making a difference and find out how you can contribute.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who generously contributed to launch our sewing classes in Uganda! 🙏🏽 Because of your compassion, what began as a vision has become a life-changing opportunity for individuals and families in our community. 🧵✨
A Legacy of Compassion and Service Dr. John LaNoue, affectionately known as "Dr. John," dedicated over six decades to global medical missions and disaster relief. His pioneering efforts, including designing the first mobile kitchen in an 18-wheeler container, have been instrumental in providing aid to countless individuals worldwide . In recognition of his unwavering commitment, Amigos Internacionales is establishing the Dr. John LaNoue Medical Clinic in Ogul Village, Northern Uganda. https://amigosii.org
Discover how food insecurity impacts children's health, growth, and education. Learn about the devastating effects of child hunger.
Discover the top 10 poorest African countries in 2025 and how your support through Amigos can bring lasting hope & transformation.
Discover the causes of food insecurity in 2025, their devastating effects on communities, and sustainable solutions for change.
Easter 2025 donations to Amigos bring schools and wells to African kids, fighting poverty and illness for a healthier, happier future in Africa.
Discover the costs, benefits, and impact of water wells in Africa, transforming lives with Amigos’ Uganda projects.
Picture a child in Uganda with big dreams but no way to reach them. That’s the reality for too many orphans who can’t afford school. In places like Northern Uganda, poverty hits hard, and education often feels out of reach. As per statistics, only 51% of girls finish primary school there, and boys don’t have it much easier. Without school, their futures stay small. But here’s the good news: for just $38 a month, you can sponsor a child and change that. You give them school, uniforms, and a real shot at a better life. Want to know how it works? We’ll walk you through why this matters, share a real story, and show you how to jump in. Check out our program; Sponsor a Child , or read about Uganda’s education gaps at UNESCO Uganda Stats . >> Want to change a life? Sponsor a Child for $38 today! The Education Crisis in Uganda Life isn’t easy for kids in rural Uganda. If you’re an orphan, it’s even tougher. School isn’t free, and without money for fees or uniforms, you’re not allowed back. Boys struggle too, but girls often drop out for things like early marriage or chores. When kids can’t learn, they’re stuck in poverty forever. No school means no skills, no jobs, and no way to climb out. It’s a cycle that’s hard to break. That’s where Amigos Internacionales comes in. Our sponsorship program steps up with $38 a month to cover school costs, keeping kids in class and giving them a chance to dream bigger. Want the bigger picture? Peek at Uganda’s poverty stats at World Bank Uganda . It’s a tough spot, but you can help. >> Help a kid beat the odds. Sponsor a Child now! Aloyo Brenda’s Story of Hope Let’s talk about Aloyo Brenda, a kid from Uganda whose life got a lift from sponsorship. Growing up, Brenda couldn’t always go to school. Poverty meant she didn’t have money for fees or supplies, so her education was spotty. Then Amigos stepped in, her sponsor made sure she got books, uniforms, and a steady spot in class. Now, Brenda’s got big plans. She wants to be a lawyer someday and build her grandma a house to say thanks. She’s already learning more, feeling confident, and loving school. In her own words, “Your brave step in sponsoring kids has given me a brighter future.” That’s the power of sponsorship: it’s not just money, it’s hope. Want to read her full story? Visit our page: Sponsorship Stories . >> Sponsor a Child like Brenda. Donate Now! What Your $38 Does Every Month So, what does $38 actually do? It’s pretty straightforward. Your monthly gift covers school fees, uniforms, books, and supplies for one Ugandan orphan. Amigos works with local schools to make sure every dollar gets to the kids who need it. We’ve already got 32 young men and women fully funded for a year, and you can add to that list. Here’s a cool part: you don’t just send money and forget. Every three months, you get a video update from your child, hosted by Patrick from Amigos. You’ll see them grow, learn, and smile. Over time, that education helps them build skills to support their families and villages. It’s a ripple effect. Curious how this fits with other projects. See their water work at Clean Water . >> See your $38 in action. Sponsor at Sponsor a Child now! Amigos’ Bigger Picture Sponsorship isn’t all Amigos does. We’ve been at this since 1967, over 55 years of helping kids and communities stand tall. Besides education, we’ve built wells in Uganda and fed millions in Central America. It’s all connected. Clean water keeps kids healthy, school gives them skills, and faith ties it together with hope. Conclusion Here’s the bottom line: for $38 a month, you can sponsor a child like Aloyo Brenda and open doors to education and dreams. It’s more than just school. It’s a lifeline for Ugandan orphans, a way to break poverty’s grip, and a boost for their whole community. Amigos Internacionales is making it happen, one child at a time, and you can be part of it. Your support today could mean a lawyer, a teacher, or a leader tomorrow. Ready to step up? Get started today & Sponsor a Child . Together, we’re unlocking futures, and that feels pretty amazing. FAQs What does my $38 pay for? It covers school fees, uniforms, books, and supplies for one child each month. How do I see my child’s progress? You’ll get video updates every three months from Patrick at Amigos. Who can I sponsor? Ugandan orphans who need help to stay in school. How many kids are sponsored now? 32 young men and women are funded for a full year. Where does my money go? It goes straight to schools through Amigos’ local partners.
