AFYAPLUS WASH GALA
For the past three years, the Afyaplus Organization has proudly hosted the Afyaplus WASH Gala a flagship annual event dedicated to raising awareness and mobilizing resources for clean water and sanitation projects in Iringa Region, Tanzania.
Held in alignment with World Water Week, the WASH Gala serves as a powerful platform that not only highlights the global water and sanitation crisis but also inspires local ownership and action. The event encourages individuals, communities, and partners to invest in long-term, community-led solutions that ensure safe and sustainable access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services, particularly for children, women, and vulnerable groups.
Through the Gala, Afyaplus is cultivating a culture of community-based fundraising, where local people contribute to solving their own sanitation challenges, promote behavior change, and foster a shared responsibility for building healthier environments.
Why WASH Matters
Despite growing global recognition that clean water and adequate sanitation are fundamental human rights, millions still live without access to these essential services. In Tanzania, both the Constitution and national development strategies emphasize the importance of equitable WASH services for all. However, poor sanitation and hygiene conditions persist, contributing to high rates of preventable diseases such as cholera, which causes severe dehydration and can be fatal—especially among children.
To date, Afyaplus has successfully conducted three WASH Galas, mobilizing significant community support and resources. These efforts have led to tangible improvements in water and sanitation access across the region. The funds raised have enabled the provision of Water Storage Facilities (500-liter water tanks) to 6,600 students (2,798 boys and 3,774 girls) in 25 schools. Furthermore, the initiative has facilitated the construction of Hand Washing Stations, each with eight taps to accommodate multiple users simultaneously, promoting hygiene and behavior change in 13 schools in the Iringa Region.
Our Impact So Far
Since its inception, Afyaplus has successfully organized three WASH Galas, resulting in real and measurable impact: 25 schools supported with improved Water storage facility. 6,600 students reached (2,798 boys and 3,774 girls). 500-liter water storage tanks distributed across schools. Handwashing stations installed in 15 schools, with 8 taps each — including features to support students with disabilities.
Through the WASH Gala, Afyaplus not only addresses immediate water and sanitation needs but also instills a lasting mindset of self-reliance and mutual support. This approach is crucial for long-term development and the creation of strong, resilient communities.
These efforts have led to:
- Increased hygiene awareness
- Better school attendance
- Reduced risk of waterborne diseases
- Empowered school WASH clubs and communities
Afyaplus 3rd WASH Gala Highlights
The third Afyaplus WASH Gala took place on March 24, 2023, at Masiti Grand Hall, Gangilonga – Iringa Region. The event brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, and the private sector in a collaborative effort to strengthen WASH services in the region. The Guest of Honor was: Deputy Minister for Water, Eng. Maryprisca Mahundi, along with other high-level representatives from the Ministry of Water, graced the occasion.
Theme: “It’s Either Water or Water”
This powerful theme emphasized that water is not a luxury — it is life itself. The Gala focused on raising funds to construct hand washing stations in five schools, prioritizing inclusive designs that support students with disabilities.
Be Part of the Change
The Afyaplus WASH Gala is more than an event — it’s a movement for dignity, health, and hope. Join us in building a future where every child has access to safe water and every community thrives in a clean, dignified environment.