COWASH IV: Green Legacy Integration and Water Quality Testing in Focus
27 February 2025
The COWASH IV team visited the Bale Goba and Bale Dinsho Woredas in the Oromia region from February 4th to 7th, 2025 to discuss potential integration of COWASH IV’s safe water supply work with the Green Legacy Initiative. The team met with Woreda Agriculture Offices and key project partners in both Woredas to discuss the feasibility of piloting the Green Legacy Initiative within catchments of COWASH IV water supply schemes.
The discussions yielded positive results. In both Dinsho and Goba Woredas, pilot programs will be launched, engaging communities in tree planting activities within upstream catchments. This community-led approach aims to improve long-term water source sustainability and resilience. Under the agreement, COWASH IV will provide crucial technical assistance and community mobilization support, while the respective Woredas will cover the costs of seeds and operational expenses. These pilot projects are expected to provide valuable insights and best practices, informing broader integration between COWASH IV and the Green Legacy Initiative across the region. Over 25 individuals participated in the discussions and field visits, including members of Woreda WASH Team, Woreda technical experts.
Ensuring Safe Drinking Water Supply: A Parallel Priority
In addition to the Green Legacy discussions, the COWASH IV team concurrently conducted critical water quality testing in the Bale Zone. The test was conducted on nine water schemes serving communities, schools, and health posts, focusing on key parameters, including pH levels (acidity/alkalinity), turbidity (water clarity), and bacterial contamination, ensuring that drinking water meets safety standards. This regular monitoring is a vital component of COWASH IV’s commitment to protecting community health.
Expanding its reach, the COWASH IV team also conducted water quality testing in the Sidama Region from February 17-22, 2025. The test was conducted on six community and institutional water points in Daela and Gorche Woredas.
These combined efforts, integrating with the Green Legacy Initiative and prioritizing water quality, underscore COWASH IV’s commitment to providing Climate Resilient, adequate and safe water access and promoting environmental sustainability for communities across Ethiopia.
