The Water That Brought Peace Back to Aisha’s Home

In one of the small shelters of Za’atari refugee camp, Aisha starts her day before the rest of her family wakes up. The gentle sound of water flowing from the tap in her shelter    was once a distant dream.

“Before the water network reached us, life was very hard,” Aisha recalls. “We waited for hours in long queues under the sun, filling buckets one by one. Sometimes, after all that, we’d go home with barely enough for the day.”

Since completing the construction of Za’atari’s water and wastewater networks in 2019 - and connecting every household to safe, reliable services - UNICEF has continued to ensure uninterrupted access to water and sanitation, providing between 35   and 60 litres of safe water per person per day. A dedicated hotline allows residents in the camp to share feedback or report issues which are promptly addressed. In recent years, UNICEF has also implemented targeted improvements to strengthen the system’s reliability and efficiency, ensuring families continue to receive safe water every day.

Morning Light

For Aisha’s family, the regular water flow brings comfort, preserves dignity, and saves time, which she now spends with her three children.

Shared Tasks

With water available all day, the family shares responsibilities and keeps their small home spotless. Running water has turned once-difficult chores into moments of teamwork and routine for Aisha and her son Mohammad.

Everyday Care

With regular water supply, Aisha can clean her children’s clothes, maintain their hygiene and cook for them, without fear of the water running out.


Little Moments

Water has brought back calm to Aisha’s days, giving her more time to care for her youngest, Judy.


Getting Ready for School

After cleaning up, Aisha gets her eight-year-old daughter, Hania, ready for school. She combs her hair carefully and straightens her blue uniform. “I like it when Mom combs my hair,” Hania says. “Then I wash my face and brush my teeth with water. I start my day clean and fresh!


Siblings Together

Access to clean, safe water keeps Aisha’s children healthy and hydrated all year around.


Coming together for meals

For Aisha’s family, water means more than hygiene; it’s the foundation of health, nourishment, and togetherness.


A Mother’s Pride

“Water is about dignity, peace of mind, and life itself,” Aisha concluded.

 

UNICEF’s WASH services in Za’atari refugee camp are generously supported by the United States Government amongst other donors.