Continuing our series promoting the Michigan Conference’s Earth Day of Action, Jefferson Knight gives an update on Water for Life and how it continues to build wells, nourishing lives in Liberia and the Republic of Guinea with clean water.
JEFFERSON KNIGHT
Director, Water for Life
“The Lord has done great things for us, and we rejoiced. Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like the watercourses in the Negeb” (Psalm 126:3-4, NRSVUE).
In 2024, Water for Life constructed 29 brand-new wells, bringing safe, clean water to numerous underserved villages and communities. Each village commemorates a new well with joyous celebrations that underscore the significance of this life-changing resource.
As we reflect on the impactful work of the Water for Life initiative, founded by the Liberia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church in 2008, it is essential to understand the broader context of the global water crisis and its implications for communities like ours.
The Global Water Crisis: A Stark Reality
According to the World Health Organization’s 2020 report, a staggering 90% of Liberia’s population lacks access to clean and safe drinking water. This critical situation underscores the urgency of our mission at Water for Life. Access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) is not merely a luxury. It is a fundamental human right that plays a vital role in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Recent estimates suggest that over 25% of the global population does not have access to safe drinking water — defined as clean, accessible water available on-site whenever needed. Additionally, approximately 46% of people lack access to a safely managed sanitation facility, meaning they do not have a place where human waste is disposed of safely and healthily.
While we acknowledge the progress made over the past two decades — reducing the number of individuals without basic drinking water from 1.1 billion in 2000 to around 771 million in 2020 — these global figures often obscure significant regional disparities. Particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, the challenges remain acute, with millions still suffering from inadequate access to safe water.
Our Commitment: Tackling the Challenges Head-On
The pressing data illustrating the magnitude of the water crisis fuels our commitment to the Water for Life initiative. We recognize that the need for clean water is urgent and substantial. We are called to action, striving to fill the gaps and provide the sustainable solutions our communities desperately need.
With each well constructed through our program, we are not only improving health outcomes but also fostering community resilience and empowerment. Clean water is a catalyst for change — it reduces illness, enhances educational opportunities, and allows families to thrive.
Local Impact: A Beacon of Hope
In light of these statistics, the stories of the communities we serve become even more poignant. Each village that receives a well represents a victory against the grim realities highlighted in the World Health Organization’s report. For instance, in Flublah, Bong County, Liberia, the newly constructed well will not only serve the immediate needs of the community but also contribute to a broader effort to combat the alarming statistics plaguing our region.
As we continue to raise awareness and funds for the Water for Life program, we invite you to join us in this crucial journey. Together, we can help bridge the gap and transform lives, ensuring that every individual has access to the clean water and sanitation they deserve.
Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to making a difference. Your contributions are vital to our mission and amplify our impact far beyond what we could achieve alone.
Water for Life is supported by Michigan United Methodists through the EngageMI program of the Michigan Conference (Advance #3020811). The Michigan Conference has an enduring covenant relationship with the people of the Liberia Annual Conference. Click to learn more about this ministry partnership and the Michigan Conference Liberia Task Force.
Editor’s note: Join United Methodists all over Michigan on Saturday, April 26, for the Earth Day of Action. Worship together online and then plan to do one act of service to care for God’s good creation. Read this article to learn more and to register.
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Last Updated on April 3, 2025