Desalegn

At Splash, we believe that water infrastructure is more than pipes and tanks. It starts with people.

People like Desalegn, the General Manager at Weleha Construction, who has helped bring clean water and safe sanitation to more than 30 schools across Addis Ababa.

“My work makes a difference in the lives of the community that I work in,” he told us. And it shows.

Desalegn first heard about Splash through a friend. “I submitted my profile to the organization four years ago,” he said. “They gave me the opportunity to participate in the bidding process, and initially, I won contracts to construct in two schools.”

That beginning turned into something much bigger.

With deep experience in WASH infrastructure, from dam construction to electromechanical systems, Desalegn was more than ready. “I have experience in water irrigation, water supply, starting from dam construction, headwork, diversions, and all.”

His partnership with Splash grew quickly. In just four years, Desalegn has worked in more than 30 schools.

What’s stood out most?

“I love the schedule of Splash’s work,” he shared. “Initially, the Splash infrastructure team discussed plans with contractors and established a feasible timeframe. Additionally, I was pleasantly surprised by the supply of clean drinking water. The interaction Splash maintains with the contractors is another of its strengths. The plastic water points installed at the schools amaze me; they are durable, easy to repair, and less costly than others.”

When we asked if he had any hesitations about working with us, his answer was simple: “I didn’t have any hesitation.”

That kind of trust is built through collaboration and transparency. It’s central to everything we do.

But what about impact?

“Building the infrastructure by itself is the first change in the schools,” Desalegn said. “Having clean water for drinking, having a sufficient water supply for the toilet facilities supported the cleanliness of the school environment.”

For Desalegn, some moments stay with you, like when he was working at Millennium Secondary and Preparatory School. “We went to the school after a few years, and the work was as functional as [it was when it was] new,” he recalled. “In addition, the concrete reservoir that was built at that school was a great thing. It solved a water storage issue.”

That sense of care from both the school and the students is what keeps infrastructure working long after the ribbon is cut. But it doesn’t always happen everywhere. That’s why Splash’s work goes far beyond the built environment. Behavior change, leadership, and ownership are the roots of lasting change. We also work closely with schools, students, and communities to ensure it lasts.

Desalegn notes, “In my understanding, working on the behavior change of the school community has a great impact on keeping the infrastructure intact.”

When asked what impact he’s seen from Splash’s work, Desalegn didn’t hesitate. “Provision of clean water, water supply at schools, and having a clean environment for the teaching and learning process.”

For him, being a part of this work is deeply personal.

“I am proud of being part of this project. Though the projects may seem small, they are disseminated in every corner of Addis Ababa. And it is not as small as we think."

Desalegn’s work reflects Splash’s mission in every way. We are grounded in dignity, driven by impact, and moving forward—together.