Access to safe drinking water is an important issue addressed by the Millennium Development Goals
Giving children a brighter future through the Millennium Development Goals
In 2005, Lewis, then aged 17, hoped to finish school and have a bright future. In 2010, he explains that things have since changed.
“Both my mother and father have passed away and I am helping to look after my siblings. I have 6 younger siblings, 4 of which are under my direct care”.
2010 marks an important milestone on the way to 2015, the year set for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The United Nations General Assembly (UNGASS) are meeting to review progress towards the achievement of the MDGs through the High level Plenary Meeting of the General Assembly.
While some progress can be seen, many countries and many goals are lagging behind. Children in the developing world, like Lewis, are often the most vulnerable members of society, yet they still have dreams for their lives.
Small and essential changes, such as clean water, reliable sources of food, quality education and health care, have the potential to help children to realise their dreams. Changes that have been promised in the MDGs.
As part of preparations for the High Level Summit (MDG+10) of the UN in September 2010, World Vision visited children in rural communities in Zambia, as a follow up to a study conducted in 2005 to assess children’s dreams and hopes for 2015. A sample of the children talked to in 2005 was tracked down to see how life had changed and sample of new children of comparable age and in the same locations as the 2005 group was spoken to.
This report presents real stories, real hopes and real voices of children within the context of the MDGs today. Key themes include access to education, quality health care, safe drinking water and food security.
