Growing up without running water in Kabanana Compound, a community on the outskirts of Zambia’s capital, Beatrice Phiri discusses how she got to see first-hand the dramatic effects of climate change.  

Much of my life has revolved around the pursuit of water.  Living in my community was challenging because we all endured the difficult task of fetching water. For most families, this was the responsibility of the girls and women. So from the age of 15, it was my duty to ensure my family had enough water for the day.

I had to wake up as early as 4am and walk 20 minutes for this task. My family and I had to use as little water as possible so that we would save most of it for drinking and cooking. I was usually exhausted by the time I made it to class, which began at 7am.

Fetching water always…