In early January 2026, Tete Province in Mozambique faced a rapidly escalating cholera outbreak. Within just a few weeks, more than 2,200 cases were reported, placing immense pressure on already vulnerable communities.
The drivers of the outbreak were clear, yet complex: heavy seasonal rains and flooding, widespread reliance on unsafe water sources, limited sanitation, and overcrowded settlements, particularly in informal mining communities. In areas like Nhassossa 1 and Nhassossa 2, families depended almost entirely on contaminated river water, with little to no access to safe alternatives.
Against this backdrop, a rapid and targeted response was launched by Watsan Mozambique in partnership with Arbeiter Samariter Bund (ASB) Germany. A dedicated team of 16 trained staff mobilised quickly, focusing on one critical priority: restoring access to safe water and strengthening community-level health response systems.
Safe Water as the First Line of Defence
At the heart of the intervention was the installation of SkyHydrant ultrafiltration systems in both Nhassossa communities.
In Nhassossa 1, river water is now abstracted, filtered through the SkyHydrant system, and stored safely for distribution. In Nhassossa 2, an existing well was upgraded with a dual-tank system and ultrafiltration, ensuring continuous access to clean, safe drinking water.
Photo 1- SkyHydrant installation.Nhassossa 2 Community, Tete Province
For communities that had long relied on unsafe sources, this shift was transformative.
“Before this project, all of us depended on the river and open shallow wells… We all knew it was unsafe, but we had no other option.”
— Patric Chigura, Community Leader, Nhassossa 2
Photo 2-Patric Chigura , Community leader of Nhassossa 2 community , Tete Province.
Today, families are no longer forced to choose between thirst and illness.
“For the first time in our lives, we have water that is safe to drink… Safe water has given us hope, protected our children, and improved our daily lives more than words can describe.”
— Patric Chigura
Photo 3- SkyHydrant installation.Nhassossa 2 Community, Tete Province
Strengthening Community Health Response
Alongside safe water access, the intervention established a community-managed Oral Rehydration Point (ORP), a critical frontline response to cholera.
The ORP provides immediate care for dehydration and diarrhoeal illness, supported by trained community volunteers. Equipped with essential materials and knowledge, local responders can now identify cases early, administer treatment, and help reduce transmission.
“Because of this support, the ORP became operational immediately… providing timely care and helping to reduce transmission in our area.”
— Pedro, Community Representative
Beyond Health: Restoring Dignity and Opportunity
While the immediate goal was to contain the cholera outbreak, the impact of this intervention extends far beyond emergency response.
Access to clean water has reshaped daily life:
- Health outcomes have improved, with reduced reliance on contaminated sources and a decline in waterborne disease
- Children spend less time collecting water, allowing greater focus on education and play
- Women and girls have safer, more dignified access to water, reducing exposure to risk and vulnerability
- Households can maintain hygiene and daily routines with confidence, restoring a sense of normalcy and dignity
Importantly, the intervention has also strengthened community resilience, providing systems, knowledge, and infrastructure that will continue to protect against future outbreaks.
A Holistic Approach to Lasting Impact
The combined approach, safe water through SkyHydrant systems and community-based healthcare through the ORP, demonstrates what effective, integrated WASH interventions can achieve.
It is not just about stopping disease. It is about restoring dignity, protecting children and giving communities the tools to care for themselves.
In Tete Province, what began as an emergency response has become something more enduring: a foundation for healthier, safer, and more resilient communities.
