Making Ground slideshow

A tale of two regions

Since 2003 Amuria has been embroiled in the civil war between the government and the Lords Resistance Army (LRA). There has also been tribal conflict with a nomadic group called the Karamajong and the worst flooding in living memory in 2007. These incidents forced thousands of refugees to move to the town, putting extreme pressure on the already strained facilities.

Chigongwe and Michese in comparison have enjoyed a time of peace, but without any water sources the people here have had to rely on deep holes dug into the dry riverbed. These yield only a few litres a day.

There may be great need, but neither of the two areas present a two-dimensional picture of poverty. Amuria was forced to change by adversity, but it has embraced its increasing size, and supports cottage industries such as sewing shops, cafes and a cinema. The communities of Tanzania live a hand to mouth existence, but continue to support industry, raise families and enjoy life.

Making Ground is a portrait of change; tender, emotionally complex and constantly surprising. The project brings the basics of life into sharp focus: water, sanitation and hygiene can change the entire structure of a community and allow it to grow in more positive directions.