Shrewsbury-based charity Village Water has launched a new fundraising challenge highlighting how access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) saves women in rural Zambia and Mozambique an average of two hours and twenty-five minutes every day, according to Village Water’s annual household surveys.

This time saved leads to improved health and education outcomes and creates greater opportunities for women and girls to participate fully in community and economic life.

For 22 years, Village Water has worked alongside skilled local partners to improve the lives of over 2 million people across Zambia and Mozambique through integrated WASH programmes.

Ana had to walk miles to fetch water whilst also working tirelessly as a farmer to feed her eight children. After a waterpoint was installed at her local school, her life changed dramatically.

Throughout March 2026, Village Water is encouraging individuals, teams and businesses to take part in a fundraising activity lasting two hours and twenty-five minutes, reflecting the amount of time women previously spent each day collecting water.

Village Water staff will also lead promotional fundraising activities across the UK, including carrying water in jerry cans for two hours and twenty-five minutes to reflect the daily reality faced by the women they support.

The charity will be in Shrewsbury on Sunday 1 March, starting from The Quarry, Band Stand at 1.30pm, as part of a month of activity celebrating International Women’s Day, Mother’s Day and World Water Day. To get involved visit villagewater.org