Water 1st's mission is to serve families in the poorest communities in the world as they implement community-managed projects that provide a water supply, sanitation, and health education. 85% of the total population live in rural areas.

Health indicators demonstrate that Ethiopia has serious problems in the area of health care and disease prevention. Water and sanitation-related diseases, particularly  diarrhea, are among the top three causes of death in the country. Only 11% of the rural population has access to safe drinking water, and many people survive on a strict ration of less then five liters of water per day. 

The work of Water 1st in Ethiopia is focused in the Oromia West Showa zone, where less then 10% of the population has access to safe water and even fewer have access to improved sanitation. EOR has supported Water 1st with a donation for a project in Kelecho Gerbi.  When completed, this well, 8 community taps and 50 latrines will supply a lifetime of clean, safe water and sanitation for the people of this area.