Online campaigns for project funding transform lives in Egypt

About 7.5 million people in Egypt lack access to clean water in their homes, according to reports.

With this statistics in hand, an Egyptian startup known as Bassita has transformed the lives of many with their clickfunding concept that has raised funds for several micro-development projects.

Bassita, which means ‘simple’ in Arabic has revolutionized Egypt’s social media platforms.

One such projects known as ‘clicks for water’ has helped Aaz Menhom who can now access clean running tap water.

Menhom is greatly benefiting from Bassita’s joint campaign with the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (Unicef) to supply running water to 1,000 homes

“It makes a big difference now. The number of times I had to go to the neighbours and I could not find them, I found the door closed, or they were eating,” said Menhom.

A video posted in February received over two million views on Facebook within the first three days. Through this and other videos, clickfunding has allowed web users to finance the 170,000 US dollar project.

“In the end everyone is a winner, there will be more people who see the campaign, and the more money invested, the more partner companies gain visibility,” said Careem’s director in Egypt, Shalaby Hadeer.

The clickfunding startup has received several accolades. Last year, Bassita won the Orange African Social Venture Prize, taking home over 26,000 US dollars.

AFP