The SCL Mother House welcomed Mabior Acouth, Executive Director of Aqua Africa, and Dana Bradfield on April 4, 2025. Mr. Acouth, who lives in South Sudan, shared insights about their organization’s water projects during his visit to the United States.
Aqua Africa drills water wells in South Sudan using a model that involves local community members in both construction and governance. Each project establishes a council of five women and five men who oversee the well’s operation and maintenance. This balanced approach ensures community ownership and sustainability.
During the presentation, Mr. Acouth highlighted their recent achievement—the completion of their eighth Village Supplier Utility System in Nadari in February 2025. This system features elevated water storage tanks that provide clean drinking water for up to 6,000 people through strategically placed tap stands.
He explained their “MicroDemocracy” training program, which trains local water management committees. In 2024, they trained eight new committees while also revisiting 28 previously established ones to assess their performance and provide additional support.
The work faces significant challenges. South Sudan experienced 280% currency inflation in 2024, along with conflicts in neighboring Sudan and flooding that affected many counties and displaced thousands of people.
Mr. Acouth shared how access to clean water transforms communities—reducing water collection time, decreasing waterborne illnesses, and supporting local schools and healthcare facilities. The SCL Community engaged with questions about both the challenges and successes of Aqua Africa’s work in South Sudan.