By HeadlineNews.News – April 2025
In a continent where millions still struggle daily for clean drinking water, the story of a young Canadian boy continues to inspire a growing movement of hope and humanitarian action. His name is Ryan Hreljac—and at just six years old, he began what would become a mission that has provided safe water to over 1.2 million people in Africa.
It all began in 1997 when Ryan, a first-grader in Ontario, Canada, learned from his teacher that children in Africa walked miles just to fetch water—many even dying from thirst or waterborne diseases. Determined to help, Ryan earned money doing chores and eventually funded his first well in northern Uganda by 1999. What started as a $70 dream blossomed into the Ryan’s Well Foundation, which has now built over 400 wells and funded more than 1,300 clean water and sanitation projects in 17 countries.
In Nigeria, where over 70 million people still lack access to safe drinking water (UNICEF), Ryan’s example is more relevant than ever. In remote communities, children often walk several kilometers daily to fetch water—sacrificing education, exposing themselves to hazards, and consuming contaminated sources. The World Health Organization reports that unsafe water contributes to the deaths of nearly 120,000 children annually across Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Fraser Foundation: Nigeria’s Response to the Water Crisis
Inspired by such global examples and the urgent local need, the Fraser Foundation is now being established in Nigeria to assist individuals, faith groups, and organizations who wish to sponsor boreholes, potable water systems, and rural irrigation projects.
In collaboration with Eden Irrigation Systems, the Fraser Foundation will promote low-cost, sustainable irrigation and water delivery solutions—empowering rural farmers, reducing hunger, and promoting food security in underserved communities. The initiative will also encourage school-linked borehole projects to keep children in class and healthy.
“Clean water is a lifeline—not a luxury,” said one trustee of the Fraser Foundation. “We are creating a simple pathway for generous Nigerians and global partners to transform entire villages with access to something as basic as water.”
The Role of Government: Support, Not Competition
While NGOs and private initiatives continue to fill critical gaps in water access, experts are calling on the Nigerian government to do more to support such foundations through grants, partnerships, and streamlined regulatory approvals.
“It’s time for the government to actively encourage and incentivize community-based projects like those of the Fraser Foundation,” said Dr. Musa Garba, a rural development advocate. “Public-private synergy is the only way we can close the water access gap and restore dignity to our rural populations.”
A standard borehole in Nigeria costs between ₦800,000 and ₦1.5 million, and for every borehole provided, a community of over 500–1,000 people benefits. When added with irrigation components, the same investment can enhance food production and economic empowerment.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As we reflect on Ryan’s journey and the launch of the Fraser Foundation, one truth stands out—ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference.
Whether you are a businessperson, public servant, religious leader, or youth group—you can adopt a village and give the gift of water. Together, we can ensure that no Nigerian child misses school or loses life for lack of something as basic as clean water.
For sponsorship, partnership, or volunteer opportunities with Fraser Foundation or to support Eden Irrigation Systems in your community, please contact: info@fraserfoundation.org.ng or visit www.fraserfoundation.org.ng.
Dr. Amiida Khazaly
The National Patriots
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