Prudential Uganda has joined forces with Tusafishe, a non-governmental organization, to improve access to clean and safe drinking water for five schools in the Mbale District. The selected schools, which include Nkoma Secondary School, Mbale High School, Nabuyonga Primary School, Mbale Progressive Secondary School, and Mbale Progressive Annex, serve a total of 14,722 students. Nkoma Secondary School alone accommodates 6,500 students.
Tetteh Ayitevie, CEO of Prudential Uganda, emphasized that this partnership reflects their commitment to supporting resilient communities in the regions they serve. He stated that it aligns with their purpose of adding value to the broader community for a more sustainable, responsible, and inclusive future. Currently, the schools spend approximately shs 600,000 to purchase 15,000 kilograms of firewood for water purification.
Tetteh highlighted the financial burden this places on the schools and its adverse environmental impact. He stated that it is their corporate responsibility to step in and help protect the environment.
Henry Othieno, CEO of Tusafishe, believes that this initiative will be a game-changer for the schools. He cited a 2022 National Health Report, which revealed that a significant percentage of diseases diagnosed at the Mbale Regional Referral Hospital and Nabumali sick bay were linked to the consumption of unsafe water and poor hygiene. Othieno commended Prudential for their support, emphasizing that it will lead to healthier lives for the students.
Traditional methods of water purification in schools, such as boiling and the use of chlorine and disinfecting tablets, are costly both financially and environmentally. Consequently, many schools require students to bring packaged water, which can be expensive for parents. Tusafishe has introduced a transformative technology that not only purifies water but also protects the environment. The water purification system can purify up to 4,880 liters daily, removing up to 99.999% of disease-causing pathogens from water sources.
To further support this initiative and in line with Prudential’s environmental, social, and governance strategy, over 3,000 Moringa tree seedlings will be distributed to communities around the schools for planting. This demonstrates a commitment to long-term sustainability and addressing climate change.
Prudential has set climate targets that include decarbonizing their own operations and investments and collaborating with their investees to ensure they transition together toward a more sustainable future.
