Play Pumps International is a nonprofit organization that enables private donors, governments, foundations, and corporations to donate PlayPump water systems to African communities and schools that are in desperate need of clean drinking water. In addition to providing safe water to drink, Play Pumps also works to enhance public health and provide play equipment to millions African children. Play Pumps, formerly known as Roundabout Play Pumps, is a company that's dedicated to doing well by doing good. They manufacture, install, and maintain PlayPump systems throughout Africa, and strive to provide rural communities with a sustainable, and free, supply of water. Play Pumps is also working to further the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals by bringing better health to an estimated 10 million people over the course of the next three years. To date hundreds of Play Pumps have been installed in South Africa that provide clean drinking water, which is the first step to curing many health, education, gender, and economic issues. Clean water ultimately means longer, healthier lives for African children and their families.

Play Pumps creates other benefits that compliment the value of clean drinking water like enabling children to stay in school instead of hauling water. Women also benefit a they no longer have to risk injuries from taking heavy containers of water across far distances, and can focus on taking care of their children and starting their own business enterprises (a growing trend with African women). Play Pumps also feature health messages that are intended to help limit the spread of HIV/AIDS in rural Africa. The best part about Play Pumps is that they're sustainable and have the power to create economic benefits. Each 2,500 liter water tank has huge potential for advertising opportunities â€" two sides of each tank are leased for consumer advertising while the other sides are used for additional public health messages. The advertising revenue alone pays for maintenance of the pump for up to 10 years. And the pumps themselves create new jobs for local residence for things like maintenance and installation.

PlayPumps found an innovative solution to the clean water epidemic in Africa. By thinking outside the box they were able to create a fun, interactive experience for children while at the same time alleviating pressure, stress, and physical hardship for parents. By creating a product that enables kids to contribute to their family's well being they've added substantial meaning to an already attractive activity.