The Lifeline of Water: Asmahan's story in Za’atari Camp

In Za’atari camp, Asmahan, an Arabic teacher at a Makani centre, lives with her husband and six children. Their journey to Jordan began in 2013 after fleeing the war in Syria.

The early days in the camp were tough. Asmahan recalls the daily struggle for clean water. "

We had to carry water home in buckets and queue every day at public taps," she says. 

The lack of privacy at public washrooms made life even harder.

Things began to change with UNICEF's intervention. The installation of water and wastewater networks transformed their living conditions. "These networks have allowed us to have water in our own houses, toilets, and kitchens, giving us a sense of normality," Asmahan explains.

Living in Za’atari has taught Asmahan and her family the true value of clean water. "Unlike Syria, water here is very limited, and if we are not careful, we will run out of water before the next round of water distribution," she says. Most of their water is used for hygiene, a crucial aspect of camp life.

Asmahan has instilled the importance of water conservation and hygiene in her children. "Thankfully, all of them have learned well, and we never run out of water as a result," she proudly shares.

Her daughter Shahd, though shy, demonstrates how her teachers and mother taught her to wash her hands properly, a small but significant step in maintaining health in the camp.

Asmahan's story is a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of families in Za’atari. It highlights how access to clean water, made possible through UNICEF’s support, is critical in improving their lives.

Za’atari camp, home to over 78,500 residents, benefits from UNICEF's water, sanitation, and hygiene services. Established in 2019, these household-level systems ensure stable access to clean water, safe sanitation, and reduced operational costs, enhancing residents' quality of life.

By AbdelMajid Al-Noaimi, UNICEF Jordan

For more information about UNICEF's work in Jordan, please visit their official website:UNICEF Jordan