Lead Researcher: Michael Johnson, Professor
This innovation project developed and tested low-cost, sustainable water purification and distribution systems designed specifically for rural South Sudanese communities with limited infrastructure and resources.
Access to clean water remains one of South Sudan's most pressing challenges, with only 59% of the population having access to safe drinking water. This innovative project by the Optimum Institute of Professional Studies focused on developing context-appropriate solutions to improve water access in rural communities. The research team conducted extensive fieldwork to understand local water sources, usage patterns, and existing purification methods. Based on this research, they developed three key innovations: a solar-powered water purification system using locally available materials, a community-managed water distribution model, and a water quality monitoring toolkit. The solar purification system uses a combination of UV treatment and filtration to remove pathogens without chemicals, requiring minimal maintenance and no electricity beyond solar power. The community distribution model establishes local water committees responsible for system maintenance and fair water distribution, creating a sustainable management structure. The monitoring toolkit enables communities to regularly test water quality using simple, affordable methods, ensuring ongoing safety of the water supply. The project was implemented in six rural communities, reaching over 15,000 people. Follow-up studies showed a 65% reduction in waterborne diseases in participating communities and significant time savings for women and children who previously traveled long distances to collect water. The project also created local employment opportunities through the training of water system technicians and committee members. This research exemplifies OIPS's commitment to developing practical solutions to South Sudan's development challenges while promoting community ownership and sustainability.
National Innovation Award for Public Health 2023