Rt Hon Jack McConnell MSP is announced as Pump Aid’s newest Ambassador…
Pump Aid and Jack McConnell (First Minister of Scotland 2001 – 2007) were introduced to each other over a year ago and have since formed a strong relationship that has brought McConnell over to Malawi to visit the Pump Aid projects and experience firsthand, the significant achievements of Pump Aid.
McConnell visited many of Pump Aid’s rural projects, meeting the people who have benefitted from Pump Aid’s presence and seeing the community spirit that has developed through their work. Improved health, greater hygiene awareness, increased school participation and access to clean sustainable water are just some of the reasons why McConnell saw something special in Pump Aid.
McConnell has always had a strong awareness of Africa, he was appointed the Prime Minister’s Special Representative for Peace building in October 2008, and within this role he facilitated the ambition to improve the international mechanisms for Peace building. He was also appointed as an advisor to the Clinton Hunter Development Initiative in Malawi and Rwanda.
Since becoming Ambassador for the International charity, Pump Aid was selected as UK NGO partner to Live Earth 2010. Live Earth is the brainchild of former US Vice President Al Gore and Entrepreneur Kevin Wall; Live Earth has tirelessly worked to raise awareness of the significant impact of climate change.
This year on April 18th 2010, Live Earth returns, turning its attention and significant influence onto the global water challenge. Almost 100 countries right across the globe will participate in supporting Live Earth, half of which will be hosting the 6k Run for Water event on the 18th April, including London.
Those unable to make it to our London event are encouraged to set up their own Friends of Live Earth event to help support this cause. The water crisis is a global one and we want to give people the tools to support Pump Aid in any way they can. The Friends of Live Earth events allow communities anywhere to set up their own 6km runs, whether that is around your street, or at a local school in support of Pump Aid.
Pump Aid is extremely excited to be involved in such an ambitious event and to have the support of its new Ambassador RT Hon Jack McConnell to raise awareness of water poverty. All proceeds raised go directly to Pump Aid projects in Zimbabwe, Malawi and Liberia. Close to a billion people live without access to clean, safe drinking water and by 2025, two thirds of us will be living in water stressed areas.
Jack McConnell: “Pump Aid is such a special charity, I was so overwhelmed when I visited some of their projects in Malawi ,and amazed that one charity can deliverer on so many levels. Access to clean water and sanitation for all of the communities that Pump Aid works in, is life changing. It improves their health and hygiene, prevents the spread of disease and gives communities the independence they need to bring themselves out of the poverty cycle.
As Pump Aid Ambassador, I am honoured to be representing such a dynamic, fresh, and engaging organisation and look forward to the year ahead. With the Live Earth event just around the corner I would urge people to visit the website and sign up to run for water or set up your very own friends of Live Earth event, the water crisis is a global issue and these events can help to raise awareness and hopefully raise funds to bring clean water to people in need.”
Pump Aid’s mission is to combat the global water and sanitation crisis, and Live Earth is a real chance to put a spotlight on the world’s water challenge and do something about it. 6km runs will be taking place throughout the country – and for that matter the globe, get your workmates, friends and family involved and arrange your very own run for water. Visit here to find out how you can get involved!
Find out more about our new Ambassador http://www.jackmcconnell.org/
For more information on the Live Earth event please call 0207 922 7992 or email communications@pumpaid.org
