Brandix launches Jalavahini

An initiative to empower women community leaders involved in water resources management was launched by the Brandix Group, in recognition of the fact that community-based organisations (CBOs) are responsible for a sixth of the country's water supply.

'Jalavahini' will conduct a series of interactive training programs across the country for women with 'hands-on' roles at grassroot level in the water sector, in collaboration with NetWwater (Network of Women Water Professionals).

The first training program was inaugurated by Water Supply and Drainage Minister, Dinesh Gunawardena at the Water Resources Board and Brandix Training Centre, Anuradhapura, for a representative group of women from the North Central Province, a region facing many serious water-related challenges.

The Training Centre was donated to the Government by Brandix and Gap Inc., USA in September 2007.

Minister Gunawardena said the Government had given its blessings to these community-based organisations.

In the Anuradhapura district alone, 19 percent of potable piped-water was supplied by CBOs, the minister said.

"This program sponsored by Brandix is important because it will help these organisations to develop an effective action plan by identifying future difficulties, challenges and trends," he said.

The Minister said the National Community Water Trust was set up outside the purview of government departments and companies to give them security, technology, strength and independence, and that his ministry would extend its cooperation to enable them to invest their earnings and make profits.

He said the Government was appreciative of the support of Brandix to this effort.

Head of CSR at the Brandix Group Anusha Alles said, "There is an increasing trend of women bearing the brunt of social and economic costs related to water insecurity, especially in the Dry Zone.