Water Access Brings Hope for Economic Stability

Valéry Namuto, Director of Eastern Congo Initiative’s social enterprise Asili, can’t help but be in awe of all the construction around him as he stands on a dirt road in a mountainside village in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. He knows this construction led by Asili means access to water for communities and, ultimately, a catalyst to fight diseases and create economic stability.

Providing a Foundation

In Swahili, Asili means “foundation”—a word that can denote a starting point, something strong upon which to build. Asili is providing the foundation for self-sustainability by reinventing aid to address the root causes of poverty and instability in eastern Congo. 

Beneficiaries become customers by paying a small amount for high-quality essential services like clean water, primary healthcare and renewable energy at rates that 95% of the community can afford. By building the capacity of local communities to meet their own needs, the program is helping to create a more stable and prosperous future for the region. 

“The shift in power dynamics raises expectations and opens doors to new, growing possibilities,” notes Valéry. He witnesses the shifts each day as he coordinates the operation of Asili, from counting cash at water points to negotiating rights-of-way with local leaders. “Asili Zones 9 and 10, funded by the Caterpillar Foundation and ten Cat® dealers, will be complete in August 2024. Each zone will have two water kiosks and five fountains that will provide families of Bukavu with clean water for the first time in their lives. We estimate that 80,000 people will have access to clean water as a result of this project.” 

Asili exemplifies how strategic support and collaboration can drive sustainable development. Caterpillar Foundation President Asha Varghese looks to the future: “The impact of Asili extends far beyond the immediate benefits of healthcare and clean water. By building a sustainable and scalable model, Asili is creating a blueprint for community development that can be replicated in other regions. This project is not just about meeting basic needs; it’s about empowering communities, fostering resilience, and supporting long-term prosperity.”