Queen Zaynab Otiti Obanor, a renowned philanthropist, humanitarian, and former Nigerian queen, continues to spearhead impactful initiatives aimed at addressing critical global health issues. The Queen’s prominent “Water for Wellness” project has become particularly noteworthy for its contribution to mitigating water scarcity and promoting health, especially within rural communities.
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Launched in April 2021 under the auspices of the Queen Zaynab Foundation, the initiative provides potable drinking water in communities where water scarcity is a significant problem, often creating severe health challenges for children and women – society’s most vulnerable members.

“The lack of clean water has a devastating effect on those who cannot readily access it,” Queen Zaynab explained, “Through ‘Water for Wellness’, we are not just providing clean drinking water; we are ensuring the improved health and well-being of communities.”

She said the project utilises solar-powered boreholes to provide water around the clock, ensuring a constant supply throughout the year.

Moreover, the initiative extends beyond merely installing these facilities. The Queen Zaynab Foundation works closely with community leaders to ensure security and regulation of these boreholes and educate local populations about environmental sanitation, Zaynab said.
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“Education plays a crucial role in maintaining these facilities,” says Queen Zaynab. “Our aim is not just to provide but to sustain. That’s why we engage local leaders and ensure community involvement.”

The World Bank estimates that without significant intervention, nine out of ten people living in extreme poverty will be in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030. Queen Zaynab’s efforts with “Water for Wellness” play an integral part in reversing this grim projection. The project addresses a key global development goal, highlighting the vital role of clean water in health and wellbeing.

The Covid-19 pandemic has compounded the situation further, placing an additional strain on economies and revealing the limitations of governments to tackle these challenges alone. In response, Queen Zaynab has called for collective efforts to address these crises.
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“Governments alone can no longer surmount these challenges,” she states, “Every possible intervention is now necessary to save humanity.”

According to her, “Water for Wellness” is one of several projects the Queen Zaynab Foundation has initiated to make a positive difference. Others include Project Siwaju, which aids rural women with access to funding, arable land, and agricultural resources, and the Queen Zaynab Medical Aid Programme, which aims to provide comprehensive healthcare to the most vulnerable segments of society.

She said her conviction is that “True kindness is not a feeling, it is an action. One little act can go a million miles. It’s only a matter of time.

“My actions are to provide a ray of hope in the face of growing inequality and deprivation, demonstrating how individual and collective action can make a significant difference in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.”
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