Water Boy
There was a time I traveled around South Sudan living out of tents. I used buckets, basins, jerrycans to shower, wash, and filter clean water. I often paid someone to go and collect for me from someplace far away. Have you ever tried to carry 20 liters of water? Its heavy.
Water Pipes
Life without pipes is difficult. We often take for granted the ability to turn a handle, lever, or switch to open a stream of water to clean, drink, and use it for whatever need we might have. The water is right there. Myself, I walk five feet to relieve myself and shower. Probably using as much water as found in the jerrycans seen in this image. They represent at least 80kgs (176lbs).
Water collection is not easy. This work is normally tasked to the Women. Carrying jerrycans on their heads for very long distances. At the same time carrying one or two with their hands. Maybe also carrying a small child on their back. These ladies are extremely strong.
This young man and a few of his friends were supplying an order to a large NGO camp in Maridi, South Sudan. The source was a lake, at least 10 to 15 minutes away by foot. Carrying their load with hands was out of the question. They used wheelbarrows instead. It is interesting to see how production can be improved by technology that has been around for ages.
This is the second image in a series of lifestyle situations. The original photo, taken 13 years ago in Southern Sudan, shows all three boys pushing wheelbarrows. These days, boys still push wheelbarrows, women carry jerrycans on their heads, and a pipe is used for smoking.
