As a country that has mainly an arid to semi arid climate, as well as having been devastated by war for almost four decades, it is no surprise that Afghanistan suffers immensely from water scarcity. Once a vibrant country with growing and flourishing cities, the country now suffers from a chronic shortage of clean water as well as the infrastructure that is necessary to ensure its supply.

Due to incessant conflict and instability, an official census has not been undertaken in almost 40 years, however it is generally understood that the population of Afghanistan stands at approximately 30 million. A predominantly rural country; only about 21% of the population live in urban centres. On average, 27% of the population have access to improved water sources, and in rural areas this figure decreases to a woeful 20%. The magnitude of the problem can be illustrated in Kabul: the capital; 80% of the population lack access to safe drinking water, and a staggering 95% lack access to improved sanitation facilities.

Whilst open defecation isn't a prevalent practise, the use of traditional latrines is still widespread. Whilst preferable to open defecation, this is not without its problems, due to crippling poverty, there is no sewage system; it is for this reason that diseases can spread rapidly at times. This problem is exacerbated by a lack of water.

As one of the fundamental pre-requisites to living a dignified life, it is shocking that such a situation exists in some parts of the world. Hence, the aim and priority of Brunel Afghan Society's 2016/2017 project will be centred primarily around donating money toward building water pumps and increasing access for the poor people of Afghanistan.