Zano’s journey to clean water

Published on: 11/11/2025

In Zano, a small village in the commune of Tenkodogo, mornings used to follow the same routine — the exhausting struggle to fetch water. Women set out with jerrycans balanced on their heads, children trailed behind, and hours were spent searching for water. Water was scarce, time was lost, and fatigue weighed heavily on the community.

But things have changed.

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Residents of Zano fetch water from one of the community standpipes (Source: IRC, 2025)

Thanks to support from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Zano now has its own solar-powered water system — a transformation that has brought hope, health, and relief to more than 1,500 residents. The old handpump has been upgraded to a modern, sustainable water supply system with a solar-powered system, a 30 m³ water tower, and three public standpipes.

Today, clean water flows right where families live. No more long walks, no more endless waiting at pumps. The joy is visible in every smile — in women filling their basins effortlessly, in children laughing as they drink from a cup, in elders sitting under the shade, proud to see water finally reaches their homes.

As one resident of Zano shared, “Before, the water came out of the pump too slowly. It tired us out. We are happy with this new facility. Now we just have to go to the standpipe and no matter how many people there are, we get water very quickly. We used to walk for kilometres. Now, water is here, at home.” Mariam Samandoulgou.

This achievement is more than an infrastructure success — it is a story of renewed dignity and opportunity. With water close at hand, families can focus on education, livelihoods, and hygiene. The change in Zano is already rippling through Tenkodogo, where schools are also promoting handwashing and hygiene education to build a healthier, more resilient community. 1,793 students from five schools took part in a creative hygiene campaign, learning the importance of proper handwashing through songs, demonstrations, and peer-led activities. These student leaders have become true ambassadors of change, sharing healthy habits within their families and neighbourhoods.

In this short film, “Ripples of Hope | Young Leaders and Clean Water for Healthier Communities in Zano, Tenkodogo,” you’ll discover how access to safe water — and the leadership of young hygiene champions — are inspiring a new generation to protect their health and their future.