Three-mile walk-a-thon set for World Water Day today

Mar 19, 2011 News

In observance of World Water Day, Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) in collaborated with UNICEF, PAHO, WWF-Guianas, EPA, DIGICEL, and the Ministry of Health will host a special three-mile “Walk-A-Thon” in observance of the day.
Designated by The United Nations General Assembly, International World Water Day is held annually on March 22 as a means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
World Water Day 2011, which is being held under the theme “Urban Water Management: Key Issues and Priorities for Action”, will be observed in Guyana with a three-mile walk-a-thon today.  The idea of the walk-a-thon is to simulate the struggles of the people of Sub-Saharan Africa, who are required to walk for three miles to get water.
The walk will commence at 6:00hrs at the Umana Yana into High Street, then into Main Street, into Church Street and will conclude at GWI’s Corporate Complex on Vlissengen Road and Church Street.
Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, Minister Irfaan Ali and Health Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy are expected to participate in the “Walk for Water”.
The ‘Walk for Water Walk-A-Thon’ involves the collaboration of key stakeholders and aims to create awareness about the need for sustainable water management in the rise of rapid urban population growth, industrialisation, Climate Change and natural disasters that affect urban water systems.
“With the creation of new housing schemes, such as the ever expanding Diamond Housing scheme, it is critical that Guyanese are aware that there is more demand for water, hence the need for us to conserve,” stated Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali, “I applaud all the stakeholders for collaborating with the water sector, and urge Guyanese to support the Walk for Water.”