The remote village of Riwaldi, in the Rigo District of southern Papua New Guinea, sits near the top of a mountain, and has struggled for decades to find a source for clean, reliable drinking water.
When rainfall comes, it quickly runs down the mountain, leaving the community without a stable source of clean water.
But thanks to funding from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a centrally-located water well now provides stable, healthy water. Community toilets were also built as part of the project. .
At a ceremony on 2 May, 2025, community members gathered to celebrate the completion of three projects: the Church-provided community well and restrooms, and, separately, a new school building provided by local government funding.
Students performed traditional dances in celebration, and local leaders spoke of the immediate impact both projects would have on the community.
Riwaldi water project supervisor Ilagi Kema said “there is a problem in our community because we live in the high hills, and sometimes we find it difficult to find water."
He said that water is the most serious issue in their community.
"Where there is water there is life. So, this is a way forward, and it is a blessing for our community for you to give this service to us.”
In communities like Riwaldi, and throughout Papua New Guinea, the Church of Jesus Christ works to provide humanitarian resources to meet basic needs and improve health and educational opportunities for all. For those who receive assistance, something as simple as a faucet clean, safe and reliable water can be a blessing of profound comfort and confidence as families and friends happily support and lift each other.