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Community-Driven Water Projects in Samilpamba, Yugsialo & Beyond

Samilpamba Potable Water System

 

 

Bringing Clean Water to 12,000 Feet

 

Nestled high in the Andes Mountains at nearly 12,000 feet above sea level, the village of Samilpamba is one of the most remote communities in the region. Home to around 200 people in 26 households, the village has long faced challenges due to its altitude and limited access to basic services—especially clean, safe drinking water.

 

In 2018, the community took a significant step toward change.

 

Thanks to a collaboration between the Engineers Without Borders (EWB) Denver Professional Chapter and Centro Educativo La Minga, a potable water system project was launched to address the community’s urgent needs. From the very beginning, the initiative prioritized local engagement. Residents worked side by side with volunteers and engineers to plan and build a system that would serve the entire community.

 

Despite rugged terrain and high-altitude construction challenges, the project moved forward with determination and cooperation. After four years of steady progress, the system was completed in 2022—bringing clean, reliable water directly to homes across Samilpamba.
 

Project Update (2022)

 

 

  • The Samilpamba Potable Water System was completed in 2022, providing safe, reliable water directly to all 26 households (approximately 200 people).

  • The system is now successfully managed by a community Water Board, ensuring long-term sustainability.

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Today, the system is successfully managed by a local Water Board made up of trained community members. Their work ensures the long-term sustainability of the system, empowering the community to maintain and oversee its own vital infrastructure.

 

Funding for the project came from generous donations to EWB Denver Professional Chapter and Centro Educativo La Minga, making it a powerful example of what can be achieved through partnership and solidarity.

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Yugsialo Potable Water System

 

 

Clean Water Through Community Unity

 

Just three miles north of Malingua Pamba, perched on a ridge high above the River Toachi, lies the village of Yugsialo—a vibrant community determined to shape its future.

 

In 2024, construction began on the Yugsialo potable water system, a much-needed project designed to serve approximately 250 residents in 34 households. Uniquely, the system will draw water from two separate sources, increasing its reliability and resilience for the long term.

 

The story of Yugsialo is one of unity and self-determination. Every stage of construction has been powered by local hands and hearts through mingas—traditional communal work gatherings where residents contribute labor, knowledge, and support. These collective efforts reflect the strong cultural and social fabric of the village.

 

The project is expected to be completed in 2025, and once operational, it will significantly improve access to clean water, enhance public health, and reduce the daily burden on families, especially women and children, who often bear the responsibility of collecting water.
 

Project Update (2025)

 

 

  • Completed in June 2025, the Yugsialo system now serves 34 households (about 250 people).

  • The system draws from two separate water sources, increasing its reliability and resilience.

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Funding for the Yugsialo system has also been provided through donations to EWB Denver Professional Chapter and Centro Educativo La Minga. These contributions are critical—not only for Yugsialo, but for future projects already being planned. In fact, discussions are currently underway with a neighboring village to begin construction of another water system in 2026.

Anchi Potable Water Project — Coming 2026

 

 

Following the success of Samilpamba and Yugsialo, EWB and Centro Educativo La Minga are partnering with the nearby community of Anchitonduluquin (Anchi) to bring potable water to an additional 35 households (about 180 people).

 

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026.

Your support can help make this next milestone possible.

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From a Volunteer’s Perspective

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“I made my first trip to Malingua Pamba, Ecuador in June 2013 and have since made 21 trips to the region. The people are incredibly strong, resilient, and welcoming. It has been one of the great pleasures of my life to know them and to help improve their lives.
The Denver Professional Chapter’s work in Ecuador has already provided potable water to over 220 households and 1,100 people—and also completed sanitation and irrigation systems. Please donate to help us continue this important work.”
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— John Jankousky, EWB Volunteer, Denver Professional Chapter

Support Ongoing Efforts

 

 

Your contribution helps bring clean water, education, and opportunity to rural Andean communities. Every donation strengthens sustainable, community-owned infrastructure and changes lives.

 

Ways to Give:

 

  • 💌 By Check — Payable to Centro Educativo La Minga, Inc.

  • 📱 Venmo — @Pamelita-Gilbert (last four digits: 8638)

  • 💻 PayPal — Visit www.escuelaminga.org and click DONATE (~3% processing fee)

 

 

Together, we can make clean water flow for generations.

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