VILLAGERS have seen with their own eyes the dramatic impact fund-raising efforts have made for the Cookham to Kedida project.

Christian Aid launched the project with the aim of supplying clean and accessible water to 60,000 people in 12 villages in the Kedida Gamela region worst affected by droubt.

Anne Phipps of Christian Aid came to Holy Trinity church on Sunday to present a video of her recent visit to Ethiopia and talk about the progress it has made.

She said: "There were about 50 or 60 people at the talk including representatives from the Methodist Church. It went really well, people were so engaged and interested.

"There was about 40 minutes worth of questions and it was great to see how well taken on board the project had been. People were overwhelmed by the scale and immensity of the project."

Cookham became involved with attempts to fund the ambitious water project in the deprived Kedida region two years ago.

Over £18,000 of the £25,000 target has been raised so far by the people of Cookham.

Project leader Wondeyhau Gedamu said: "Water is the highest priority here. Clean water prevents diseases and nearby water saves hours of collection time.

"Not having close, clean water affects every aspect of life. In the name of the beneficiary community I want to acknowledge Cookham's high dedication to sending money to the project - we are very happy and we love you - God Bless you."

Miss Phipps said: "The people of Kedida couldn't believe that a small community in England wanted to help even though they had never met them before."

Watch a video of Anne's work by clicking on the link above.

7:21am Friday 11th April 2008

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