Aboud, a Palestinian village well known for its olive trees, homemade wine, soap, and historic sites, was once also known for the poor quality of its drinking water. Thanks to USAID, Abboud now has access to clean, safe water. Sixty-six-year-old Khateb Al Abed is one of the 2,500 inhabitants who had been drinking polluted water for years. Until USAID came along, Khateb Al Abed says he and his fellow resident had no option but to drink water that they deemed ‘undrinkable.’ Now, he says he no longer has to bear the once miserable conditions or worry about what the future will bring for his grandchildren. “This water project will give my grandchildren a healthier, longer life and I thank USAID for that” said Al Abed.
Azar, said while explaining about the new road and water projects in Abboud Village. He added that the residents of Abboud were previously drinking water from a rusted water pipe last constructed in 1965: “This of course, caused many different health problems.” USAID has several new roads and water projects in Abboud. “This water project is by far the most important project for Abboud Village,” said Azar, who has run the town since 1994. Providing thee village with safe drinking water, however, was originally not on the schedule. “USAID initially came to fund Abboud roads project when they noticed we are suffering from a bigger problem.”
USAID recently funded approximately 33 kilometers off main and internal roads, and 2 kilometers of water distribution network in Abboud Village – an ancient town with an area of 155,000 dunoms.
Many families in Abboud Village invest significantly inn producing olive oil for commercial sale. In addition, Abboud produces homemade wine and olive oil that Aare distributed too local markets and exports its pure soap to external markets. According to the village’s Council Head, the recent USAID projects have given a new hope for these entrepreneurs. “The new water and road projects will stimulate the economy, making it easier for people to travel to and from Abboud Village,” said Azar. Abboud also serves as a hub for educational and medical services provided to residents of neighboring villages. There are four schools in Abboud Village where many students commute from nearby villages; with continuously delivered, safe drinking water in Abboud, many children are spending more time in school.
“USAID’s work has bought joy and safety to us (Abboud residents) said Mohammad Otthman. “The new situation will have an immediate impact on our lives; now we can drink water without feeling afraid.
Photo by I. Rashid USAID, INP.
Left to right: Mohammad Othman, Abboud Resident and Elias Azar, Head of Abboud Village Council at Project Site
USAID recently funded 2 kilometers of water distribution networks in Abboud Village- an ancient town that occupies an area of 15,0000 dunoms with a population of 2,500 inhabitants.
