Thankful for Water: Voices from Sub-Saharan Africa

This Thanksgiving, as we gather with family and friends, let’s take a moment to appreciate something simple yet essential: clean water. For many, turning on the tap is an afterthought. But in communities served by The Water Project, access to clean, safe water is a transformative gift — one that inspires deep gratitude.

Here are a few heartfelt expressions of thanks from people who no longer need to struggle for water.

“Now, with the sand dam project completed, we have a reliable source of clean water right in our community. It’s transformed our lives in ways we never thought possible. We no longer worry about queueing at the scoop [hole] or drinking dirty water. The sense of relief and gratitude is overwhelming.

“This project has been an inspiration to me. I have peace of mind, and I am now doing very well. My farm is very productive, and I am happy about it. The Lord has heard my prayers for sure. Water is life, and with this project, I am assured of life as well as the community at large.

“I am hoping to become the biggest farmer in my county, Makueni. I want to beat all odds and entirely rely on my farm!”

– Titus, Kilia Community, Southeast Kenya

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“Since the project was completed, my health has really changed; I no longer get sick because the water is clean and safe. Clean and safe water brings happiness and joy to me. [I] am in [a] position of fetching water anytime I want, without worrying of my safety.

– Brian, Elukuto Community, Western Kenya

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“I used to suffer from water-related illnesses, mostly typhoid. Now, it is the opposite. I have been healthy ever since we had this well. The money I used to spend to take treatment is now used to take care of my family.

“I’ve been able to produce more palm oil because of the water. It has helped me to process a large amount of palm oil that has generated income for me and my family. I am thinking of ways I can do other trade so that I will be able to take care of myself and [my] family.”

– Adamsay, Lokoya Community, Sierra Leone

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“My performance improved because I no longer delay at the water point in the evening, allowing me time to focus on my school work. I used to travel a considerable distance to fetch water, sometimes making the journey in the evening and returning home at night, which was both unsafe and frightening.

“The water is very clean and easy to access, unlike before. Now, I can wash my clothes every day and consistently take timely baths. I know I will [become a lawyer] since I have enough time to concentrate on my books.”

-Eddy, Kisambo-Kyabakuubi Community, Uganda

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Conclusion: Be Thankful, Be Mindful
As we gather this Thanksgiving, let’s honor these voices and remember how precious clean water is. From every glass of water on your table to every pot of food you prepare, let it be a symbol of gratitude for the convenience we enjoy — and a call to action to ensure others can have the same.

Together, we can bring clean water to those who still need it. Let’s celebrate this Thanksgiving not just by giving thanks, but by giving hope.

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