Albania is rich in water resources, and yet only 8% of their full potential is utilised at the moment.

Decaying infrastructure has left a third of the population unconnected to the water supply network. Rudimentary sewage systems contribute to the spread of disease and pollution.

Inflation and a lack of revenue have left the water authorities in Albania struggling to preserve and maintain the drinking water supply. With the lack of repair and maintenance the system has badly deteriorated.

The village of Zogaj in Shkodra, North Albania, is a typical village targeted by Islamic Relief's water programme. The local villagers chose to locate their main supply point next to the local mosque - the centre of community activity and the most accessible location.

They then worked on the small-scale rehabilitation of the village water distribution systems - pipelines and other hydraulic equipment. Finally, they have backed up their work with a thorough health and environmental education programme.

The project has been a shining example of participation and co-operation. The community have provided the necessary labour for the operation; the water board have provided the technical assistance, whilst Islamic Relief has provided the essential materials for the implementation of the project.

Funding for the project was provided by the Muslim Welfare Institute in Blackburn, UK, who have generously funded several such water supply projects in Albania.

This simple, but life-changing project has ensured that two thousand people in a remote village in Albania have access to clean water once again.

It is an excellent example of aid work implemented on the ground with partnership, participation, targeted skills and material, and education - the best kind of legacy for the future.