Clean Water Distribution for Survivors of the Lewotobi Eruption

Konga Village, East Flores – Amid the lingering volcanic ash in Konga Village following the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki on June 17, 2025, Human Initiative (HI) responded swiftly by distributing 5,000 liters of clean water to meet the basic needs of the affected residents.

Struggling to Access Clean Water

Mario*, a survivor from Klatanlo Village who has taken refuge in Konga, voiced concerns over access to clean water. He explained that while the number of bore wells may seem sufficient, the real issues lie in distribution and technical challenges. Since the last eruption, nearly all crops have been destroyed, and the community has lost its primary source of income.

Currently, Konga Village is hosting evacuees from four other villages: Klatanlo, Duli, Pali, Boru, and part of Naukote. Every day, residents must carry jerry cans from their tents to the bore wells, often waiting for hours to get water. Unfortunately, water from the two functioning bore wells is not safe for direct consumption.

Rapid Response from Human Initiative

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Human Initiative took swift action. As a humanitarian organization with extensive experience in disaster response, HI deployed a team of volunteers to Konga Village to assess the needs and begin distributing clean water to the Lewotobi eruption survivors.

The clean water was distributed across evacuation points, with priority given to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and pregnant women. HI also ensured that the water provided was safe for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene.

In times of disaster, solidarity becomes our greatest strength. Human Initiative believes that lasting change is only possible when everyone plays a role—community members, volunteers, local partners, and donors. With this spirit, HI invites everyone to join in easing the burden of the survivors of the Lewotobi eruption.

Dear Initiators, your helping hand can bring hope in the midst of disaster. Let us stand together with the survivors of the Mount Lewotobi eruption by visiting solusipeduli.org.

*Name has been changed to protect the rights holder.