Clean Water for Schools Across Africa
Ensuring that every school in the country has access to clean water
so no child has to go through the school day thirsty.
Once Upon A Well
Who We Are
Once Upon A Well is a newly founded non-profit organization with the mission of providing clean water to every school in Cameroon, and the vision of expanding this initiative across Africa.
Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, yet for many children in remote areas, it remains out of reach. These children, who often walk long distances to school, spend their entire school day without access to safe drinking water, which severely affects their ability to learn and reach their full potential.
Dehydration makes it almost impossible for them to concentrate, leading to poorer academic performance and higher dropout rates. Moreover, those forced to drink from contaminated water sources face serious health risks, including life-threatening diseases like cholera.
Meet Our Founders
The founders of Once Upon A Well, Leopold Divine Kenfack and Lionel Njefi, grew up in rural Cameroon and now live in Germany.
Having experienced these challenges firsthand, they are determined to bring about change. Leopold, in particular, was deeply inspired by his late mother, Josephine, who instilled in him a strong sense of community and the importance of giving back. Josephine often spoke of her dream to improve the lives of people in her hometown of Baleveng in Dschang through simple yet impactful acts of kindness. After her passing, Leopold promised to honor her legacy and turn her dream into reality.
The Water Crisis and Challenges in Cameroon (UNICEF Report 2023)
Children and the Population
Almost half of Cameroon’s population (45%) is under the age of 18, and nearly half of these children (47%) suffer from some form of deprivation.
For many, access to basic needs like clean water and adequate sanitation remains a significant challenge.
Schools Without Clean Water and Sanitation
Seven out of ten schools (around 69%) in Cameroon lack access to clean drinking water.
This directly impacts students’ health, increasing their vulnerability to waterborne diseases like cholera.
Our Projects
Join us in transforming lives
your support can bring clean water to schools across Africa, giving children the chance to learn, grow, and thrive without the dangers of dehydration or disease.
Together, we can build a future where no child is held back by the lack of safe drinking water.
