Being Canadian Means Being a Global Citizen
First Annual Water for Peace Event Inspires Canadians to Lead on Global Water Crisis
TORONTO, July 4, 2018 /CNW/ - The opportunity to lead on global challenges is among our most important assets as Canadians. The first annual Water for Peace event, held on June 2nd in downtown Toronto, hosted 250 engaged Canadians to learn about the need for innovative and sustainable solutions to the global water crisis, while raising funds for the Rainmaker Enterprise, a Canadian organization committed to installing solar-powered water infrastructure in remote areas affected by climate change.
The event gathered Canadian leaders to discuss the risks of the water crisis to global peace and security. "The question is not whether climate change exists, but how we are going to adapt," stated keynote Lieutenant General the Honourable Roméo Dallaire. "We want humanity to thrive." General Dallaire, who led the UN mission during the Rwandan Genocide, stressed the role Canada must play in today's fragmented political climate and identified the Rainmaker Enterprise as an organization shaping the future.
Dr. James Orbinski, former Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) President, praised the organization for harnessing technology to access water for the health of vulnerable populations. As the inaugural Director of the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research, Dr. Orbinski fosters exchange between cutting-edge research and the implementation of sustainable initiatives like Rainmaker.
The event culminated with the captivating performance of award-winning artist and South Sudanese refugee Emmanuel Jal, leaving guests inspired to act. All funds raised will support a solar-powered water project in Tonj, South Sudan, providing clean water and powering a 100-acre farm. South Sudan is among the hardest hit countries by climate change, driving extreme hunger, conflict, health challenges, and forced displacement. Solar-powered water infrastructure has the potential to address these challenges at their roots.
Two-thirds of the world's population could face water shortages by 2025. What's required to tackle one of the most significant challenges of our time is an international network, demanding the multilateral leadership for which Canada is known and which it must now supply. As General Dallaire told guests, "The future belongs to those who dare to imagine and create, and to those who have the courage to bring these processes into practical being."
To learn more, please visit www.rainmakerenterprise.org and www.waterforpeace.ca.
SOURCE The Rainmaker Enterprise
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