A student is walking seven miles a day carrying a jerry can filled with water to highlight the importance of clean water in developing countries.

Usaama Kaweesa has walked from central Croydon to Coulsdon Sixth Form College every day this week as part of his fundraiser for youth led development agency Restless Development.

The 21-year-old is wearing a traditional African dress on his walk.

On average women in some African countries walk 3.5 miles a day to collect clean water, carrying large containers which when filled weigh about three stone.

The former Coulsdon Sixth Form student of Rock Close, Mitcham, said: "I am choosing to highlight the scarcity of clean water in developing countries because nearly a billion people worldwide have limited access to clean water.

"I had wanted to walk with friends to central London and back but I couldn't get them to commit. I just thought maybe I could walk to a place I know and do it on my own.

"I carry the bottle on my shoulders and when I get tired I am reminded of all the women and girls who have to do this on a daily basis, that keeps me going."

Usaama was born in Uganda but moved to Britain aged six. This summer he will travel to South Africa for three months a volunteer at a youth resource centre.

He said he was a bit apprehensive on the first day of the walk, but the experience had exceeded all expectations.

Although he hopes his efforts will raise a £1,000 for Restless Development, he said his actions will also raise awareness of others plight.

"People have been really positive and people driving past have honked their horns or yelled 'good luck' or 'keep going.'

"Even if people don't sponsor me they will still have been made aware of the issue, and for me it's just about raising awareness."

To sponsor Usaama visit justgiving.com/Usaama-Kaweesa