Who we are

1001fontaines is a French NGO whose vision is that the best way to improve the health of vulnerable populations is to enable them to drink safe water.
1001fontaines has pioneered an innovative model, leveraging philanthropy and social entrepreneurship to create a sustainable impact.

2004

Creation
of 1001fontaines

2023

1,000,000
beneficiaries

2030

Our goal:
Become the preferred drinking water solution for the vulnerable populations in 5 countries

Our history

The creation of 1001fontaines was inspired by Louis Pasteur, who declared that “we drink 90% of our diseases.” For nearly 20 years, 1001fontaines designs and deploys sustainable safe drinking water solutions for vulnerable populations. In 18 years, we have demonstrated the efficiency of our model.

Creation of 1001fontaines 2004 Creation of 1001fontaines as a French NGO
Chay Lo, a young Cambodian engineer, along with Francois Jaquenoud and Virginie Legrand, design a small solar-powered water purification plant: the water kiosk.
11 pilot sites are set up in the Battambang province 2005-2007 11 pilot sites are set up in the Battambang province, covering approx. 60 villages in Northwest Cambodia. A pilot project is initiated in Madagascar 2008 A pilot project is initiated in Madagascar to test the model’s replicability in a different environment, where extreme poverty prevails. This replication is a success.
The Water in School program is launched 2008 The Water in School program is launched to provide safe drinking water for free in the schools
1001fontaines exceeds 200 water kiosks 2017
1001fontaines exceeds 200 water kiosks, with 190 in Cambodia and 19 in Madagascar, serving more than 500,000 beneficiaries.
1001fontaines launches two new programs 2018-2019
1001fontaines launches two new programs in Vietnam and Myanmar, doubling the number of countries where it operates.
More than 1,000,000 beneficiaries 2023 More than 1,000,000 beneficiaries are served by 1001fontaines, including 350,000 children.
One ambition: scaling up this successful approach 2030
One ambition:
Become the preferred drinking water solution for the vulnerable populations in 5 countries.

1001fontaines Switzerland

Since its inauguration in 2016, 1001fontaines Switzerland has positioned itself as a fervent advocate of universal access to safe drinking water. This initiative began with a passionate team, whose commitment increased tenfold during a trip to Cambodia. There, they witnessed the positive changes that safe drinking water can bring to vulnerable communities, and the excellence of the 1001fontaines model as a local, sustainable solution.

 

This seminal trip was marked by the discovery of water kiosks, local initiatives providing drinking water in isolated rural areas. These kiosks have become symbols of economic progress and public health. Inspired by this experience, the Swiss team pledged to intensify its efforts, notably through educational programs aimed at raising awareness among young people in Switzerland of the vital importance of drinking water.

 

Since then, the impact of 1001fontaines Suisse has grown, boosted by the arrival of Malik Bafou as General Delegate. This dynamic team has strengthened strategic partnerships, accelerating our ability to extend our impact.


In 2019, under the impulse of 1001fontaines Switzerland, the organization was awarded the prestigious distinction of “Solar Impulse Efficient Solution”, joining the select circle of innovative solutions helping to change the world.

 

Today, with its sights firmly set on the future, 1001fontaines Switzerland is committed to the Zewo certification process, affirming its ongoing commitment to excellence and transparency in its actions.

The 1001fontaines model

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Setting up water kiosks

Small enterprises producing and delivering affordable safe drinking water

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Empowering local populations

We select, train, and provide long-term support to local entrepreneurs

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Combining philanthropy and social entrepreneurship

Donations trigger the activity that reaches the breakeven point after a few months

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Providing safe drinking water for free in schools

20% of the daily water production is given to school children

An internationally recognized model

In 2019, 1001fontaines joined the very selective group of the 1,000 world-changing solutions, when it received the « Solar Impulse Efficient Solution » label.
1001fontaines has reached significant recognition on the international stage, as illustrated by its awards and distinctions:

Finalist

Countries where we operate

MADAGASCAR

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MYANMAR

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CAMBODIA

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VIETNAM

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Countries where we operate

CAMBODGE

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MADAGASCAR

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MYANMAR

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VIETNAM

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Thanks to our institutional partners

The people who make 1001fontaines

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