December 19, 2003

By: Dustin Cyril
Website: http://www.water-purification-filters.com

WaterPartners International turns its expertise to Iraq

The biggest problem for the people in Iraq may not be the war. Unclean water may kill more Iraqis during the war than bombs and bullets, United Nations officials warn. The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs issued a statement yesterday that the need for clean drinking water is fast surpassing other needs. In southern Iraq, as many as 1.5 million people lack access to a safe water supply. As temperatures rise across Iraq, a shortage of clean water will almost inevitably cause outbreaks of diarrhea disease and other health problems.

As Iraqi citizens welcome American soldiers and journalists, they have a more urgent request than democracy - they want water. This is the case not just in rural areas, but also in cities.

Today, WaterPartners International inaugurated a program to address the water crisis in Iraq. WaterPartners International has more than a decade of experience bringing sustainable safe water supply systems to people in developing countries. All of the projects they have supported are still in operation.

"We are compelled to turn our experience and expertise to the emerging water crisis in Iraq," said Gary White, executive director of WaterPartners International. "It is important that we act now because immediate access to safe water will save lives."

"As with all of our projects we will work through local partner organizations that have a proven track record and that are capable of quickly and efficiently meeting the immediate water needs. We will also look to organizations that have the expertise to shape long-term solutions," said WaterPartners' Director of International Programs Marla Smith-Nilson.

Author Notes:

Dustin Cyril contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.water-purification-filters.com.  Get educated on the benefits of water purification systems and different water filters available