Notwithstanding its historic importance,
Tasso Island has been devoid of basic amenities:
E L E C T R I C I T Y
Prior to 2021, there was a small source of electricity that powered a refrigeration unit in the island’s clinic that services 6,000 residents. To address this disparity, Consult DSA initiated a solar power project that now provides electricity and lighting in schools, mosques, churches, and the island clinic. There are still large areas around the island that are dark and dangerous, especially around the jetty where boats dock at night.
W A T E R
Drinking water is obtained from uncovered wells that are often filled with salt water. Animals are a continuous source of contamination for the well water, as they often fall into uncovered water sources and remain trapped for prolonged durations. Currently, a central method for treating the island’s water is lacking, and residents must boil all water to remove contaminants and kill microbes.
H Y G I E N E
&
S A N I T A T I O N
Human waste further threatens water sources as pit latrines overwhelm the soil’s capacity to absorb and neutralize the waste. If not addressed, the lack of appropriate sanitation will eventually contaminate the freshwater table. Fecal contamination of the environment and poor hygiene practices remain a leading cause of child mortality, morbidity, undernutrition, and stunting, and can potentially have negative effects on cognitive development. As well, inadequate sanitation facilities can be the reason young girls skip school monthly for several days during their menstrual cycle.
I N T E R N E T A C C E S S
Tasso Islander residents are disconnected from the rest of the world because they do not have the infrastructure to support a reliable source of Internet access. Internet access will improve education, health, and economic opportunities for children and adults.
