With a predominantly agricultural and informal economy, Honduras is among the poorest countries in Central America. In Marcala Municipality, many communities suffer from a shortage of safe drinking water, despite having a lot of water resources.  A recent national survey revealed that only 50% of households in Honduras have access to water free of E. Coli.  While progress has been made toward making sure people have safe water, an estimated 95% of water systems fail within 20 years because communities lack sufficient technical and financial capacity to maintain their water systems properly.

One Day’s Wages partnered with Cova to eliminate waterborne disease and facilitate long-term access to safe drinking water in 40 rural communities in Marcala, Honduras. Cova’s model depends on trained water technicians (called Circuit Riders) who support rural water boards: community-led committees that are trained to manage their chlorine-treated water systems and monitor water quality monthly. Through our partnership over 20,000 people gained improved health and well-being through access to safe water! Capacity to manage water systems also improved, with chlorination rates increasing in 82% of communities; water system reliability reaching 99%; and gender equity improving as women now fill 41% of water board leadership roles.