Jordan

Context at a glance

Jordan is a small country of approximately 5 million people. Although there is relative political stability and the most educated populace in the Arab world, the country has its share of difficulties. War and turmoil in the region have weakened the already fragile economy. Jordan has no oil and inadequate supplies of water. The vast majority of Jordanians live on less than £2,500 per year.

In the villages, families tend to have many children and, out of tradition and economic necessity, extended families live together under one roof. It is not uncommon for 12 to 15 family members to share a small two-room house.

Overcrowded living conditions such as these endanger the health and wellbeing of occupants. The lack of privacy increases family tension and makes it difficult for children to sleep and study. Women struggle to cook in makeshift kitchens with dirt floors. Without proper food storage cabinets, pests and rodents are a constant challenge. Unsanitary toilet facilities bring additional health risks.

Habitat for Humanity Programme

Habitat for Humanity Jordan (HFHJ) began its work in 2001 and is currently working in four rural villages, where the average family consists of seven children. HFHJ is also working in three urban communities. Houses are made of cement blocks, with the largest measuring 55 sq. metres. Families contribute an average of £500 towards their own house, through voluntary labour and donated materials. Each new house brings greater opportunities for families to lead safe, healthy and productive lives.

HFHJ seeks to strongly incorporate volunteerism and a sense of partnership and common purpose into its program. This is borne out through its work with partner organizations and through numerous volunteer work opportunities. HFHJ hosts groups of international volunteers, who not only construct houses, but also build relationships across cultures in the process. In a region where relations are often fragile, building houses together creates a spirit of solidarity and a new understanding between families, their neighbours and volunteers from around the world.

For many, the experience has been profound, as one participant recounts: “When I left Jordan, I took with me a deeper sense of humanity, much stronger than the walls I helped build half a world away – and much warmer than the tea offered to me on a rocky hillside on my first twilight in Al Himmeh.”

Abu Ra’ad lives with his wife and four children in a two-room apartment in Sweileh. Of all the apartments in the building, his used to be in the worst condition. Poor ventilation exacerbated a humidity problem caused by leaky pipes. The family had no bathroom – their only toilet was in the kitchen.

Mr. Ra’ad brings home just £70 a month. Although he does not have to pay rent on the flat, his income is not always enough to even meet the utility bills. One month, the family was unable to pay the water bill and their supply was cut off, forcing them to collect water in buckets from neighbours. In fact, the family’s income is so low that they qualify for assistance in the form of donated food and clothing.

The family successfully applied to HFHJ for improvements to their house. He worked with the team to design a construction project to fit his budget. The resultant new kitchen and bathroom are clean and hygienic and have greatly increased the family’s quality of life. No longer exposed to high humidity, pests and a sinking ceiling, the family also feels safer and healthier in their home.

Country Facts

Location: Middle East
Climate: Mostly Arid desert; rainy season in the West (November to April)
Population: 5.7 million
Economy: Industries include phosphate mining, petroleum refining, cement, potash, light manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, tourism and agriculture
Government: Constitutional monarchy
Religions: Islam, Christianity
Languages: Arabic (official), English

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