A Bacolod-based Social Entrepreneur’s Inspiring Journey in Providing Clean Water to Remote Villages

Auke Idzenga, a marine engineer and social entrepreneur, has committed his life to providing clean water to remote villages in the Philippines. His organization, the Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation Inc (AIDFI), has been honored with prestigious awards for its innovative social initiatives. In this interview, Auke shares the story behind his decision and the challenges he faced in uplifting rural communities through social entrepreneurship.

Auke embarked on his journey after witnessing extreme poverty during his work on three ships following his graduation as a marine engineer. This experience led him to join a technology group at a technical university, where he discovered the ram pump technology that could bring water from a lower source to a much greater height without the need for electricity or fuel. Inspired by this technology, Auke decided to devote his life to helping the poor, choosing the Philippines as the place to make a difference.

In Negros, Auke worked with sugar workers during a period of hunger, assisting them in borrowing land to produce their own food. It was during this time that he realized the urgent need for water, sanitation, energy, roads, health, and education in the rural areas. In 1992, AIDFI was registered with the purpose of catering to agrarian reform communities with programs on sustainable agriculture and appropriate technologies.

One of the biggest challenges Auke faced was the lack of resources and funding. AIDFI started in a small rented space with no computers and limited finances. Despite these challenges, Auke and his team continued to develop and test technologies to meet the basic needs of rural communities.

The development of the ram pump technology was a turning point for AIDFI. Auke spent time researching and experimenting with the technology, leading to the creation of the AIDFI model that used local materials and spare parts. Over the years, AIDFI has continued to innovate and introduce new components to its water systems, such as water filters and a mechanical water kiosk, to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the projects.

Auke emphasized the importance of community involvement and ownership of the technology, highlighting the role of women in water associations and the need for a holistic approach to social preparation. AIDFI’s impact extends beyond the Philippines, with successful technology transfers to countries like Afghanistan, Nepal, Colombia, and Mexico.

As a social entrepreneur, Auke faces challenges in the bureaucratic classification of social enterprises and the constant need to secure funding for the projects. Despite these challenges, AIDFI remains committed to creating long-term sustainable solutions for rural communities.

To measure the success of their projects, AIDFI is set to launch an app for impact monitoring, providing evidence-based data on the impact of improved access to water in remote villages. The organization’s focus on sustainability is evident in its investments in infrastructure, skilled technicians, and a passionate management team.

Auke’s inspiring journey and the innovative work of AIDFI serve as evidence of the transformative impact of social entrepreneurship on rural communities. With a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, AIDFI continues to make a difference in the lives of thousands of people through its clean water initiatives.

This article on social entrepreneurship innovation was contributed by Josiah Go, the chair and chief innovation strategist of Mansmith and Fielders Inc., a leading innovator in the Philippines.