A Year Later: Clean Water and Improved Health!

Fifty-year-old farmer Mercy Nthenge recalled what life was like in the Nduumoni Community before her community's sand dam was implemented last year.

"Before the construction of this sand dam, we were faced with great water challenges. We could trek for 3 kilometers only to fetch water from the drying scoop holes, which were never promising through a dry season. At the water source, we used to queue for long [times] such that one could waste half of their day fetching water, neglecting other household activities," said Mercy.

Collecting water is now much more straightforward for Mercy and the other community members in Nduumoni.

"The new sand dam is very near my homestead. I just [go] and collect water. I spend around five minutes and can make as many trips as my heart feels. We have plenty of water to use. In our community, we no longer have [to] hear about sickness anymore. We have the right measures to maintain hygiene, thus avoiding simple mistakes that used to land us [in] hospitals over and over again," said Mercy.

Having ready access to water from the sand dam has made a difference, allowing Mercy to improve her daily hygiene practices and benefit from improved health.

The completed sand dam.

"One of the best things about living with clean water is the assurance of good health. Clean water has reduced the risk of waterborne diseases, such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery, which are major causes of illness and death in our community. Access to clean water also promotes hygiene practices, such as handwashing and proper sanitation, further preventing the spread of diseases. The best thing about living with clean water is the improved health and well-being it brings to individuals and communities, enabling them to thrive and fulfill their potential," Mercy said.

"I am dreaming of a time when I will reap hugely from my farm through utilizing the water from the sand dam. I also want to venture into vegetable farming such that I will feed my whole village," Mercy concluded.

The impact of water on the surrounding landscape.