A Year Later: Bartholomew Spring

A year ago, generous donors helped build a spring protection and sanitation platforms with the community surrounding Batholomew Spring in Western Kenya. Because of these gifts and contributions from our monthly donors, partners can visit project sites throughout the year, strengthening relationships with communities and evaluating the actual water project. These consistent visits allow us to learn vital lessons and hear amazing stories – we’re excited to share this one from our partner, Rose Serete, with you.

Before this spring was protected, this community suffered from water borne diseases, hindering progress and development of the community. But after implementation, water borne diseases reduced drastically allowing the community to use their resources in the right way rather than using it in seeking medication. When you draw close to Batholomew Spring, you are welcomed by a serene environment full of different types of plantation that was brought about because of the spring.

Carolyne Werengekha, community member, shared how this water project has impacted her life. "Since the project was implemented I am now accessible to safe and adequate drinking water. I thank God because through your training many homes have tippy taps and hygiene is highly practiced. I also don't waste time in the spring and have more time, thus I can handle many activities in a day. I am now able to save a bit of money I get as opposed to the past when I used to spent it all on medication."

“We still have challenges with some homes sharing latrines so there is need to empower them on this,” she adds.

15-year old Brighton Bwiili also shared how the spring protection has impacted him. "My life has changed because we as a family are at peace, we used to share the pit latrine with my neighbor who was harsh. We also have sufficient time to study because when I come to the spring I take the shortest time possible. This has made me to improved personally in my academics. I thank God for this water project."

This community has really maintained well. They also need to keep up proper hygiene in their homes and keep teaching others about hygiene.  We will conduct monitoring and evaluation to ensure that the spring serves the intended purpose and that the community members get accessed to safe and clean water for drinking as well as for general chores at home.

The Water Project and our partners are committed to consistent monitoring of each water source. Our monitoring and evaluation program, made possible by monthly donors, allows us to visit communities up to 4 times a year. Read more about our program and how you can help.