The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has partnered with GiveWell to launch a new initiative that will bring safe, clean drinking water to communities in Nigeria, Chad, and Somalia affected by conflict and climate crises. The project will introduce in-line chlorination technology to improve access to safe water for displaced people and vulnerable host populations who currently rely on contaminated sources.
Access to safe water is critical for preventing disease, ensuring proper nutrition, and keeping health systems functioning. In regions where droughts, floods and outbreaks are becoming more frequent due to climate change, untreated water poses a major risk. To address this challenge, the IRC and GiveWell plan to deploy chlorination devices in seven refugee camps in Chad, as well as dozens of communities across Nigeria and Somalia — with the goal of reaching approximately 1.75 million people.
The 18-month pilot uses a cost-effective method where chlorine is automatically added at the water collection point, reducing the burden on households and ensuring more consistent water treatment. By targeting the source, the approach can scale to serve entire communities and could significantly reduce waterborne illnesses, including cholera and diarrheal diseases.
The project is backed by research showing chlorination as one of the most effective and evidence-based WASH solutions. It will also include strong water-quality monitoring and cost-effectiveness analysis so that local actors can sustain and expand the model long-term. Leadership from both the IRC and GiveWell emphasized that the initiative will not only save lives but also generate valuable data to guide future humanitarian investments.
Building on past collaboration between the two organizations focused on malnutrition treatment, this partnership aims to demonstrate that lifesaving water interventions can deliver strong impact for every dollar spent. As the climate crisis continues to intensify water scarcity and health threats, the pilot represents a scalable, resilient model for protecting communities most at risk.
