A Year Later: Feeling Good!

Before we protected Nanjendo Spring in Imbinga Community, people would have to scoop up water from the spring cup by cup, often stirring up sediment and muck as they did. Fetching water took a long time, and the end product was often full of particles. All of this culminated in frequent outbreaks of waterborne diseases and a lack of time and energy for important daily tasks.

"The water was dirty, especially during the day," said 13-year-old Brian O. "Many people drew water, and in the long run, [the] water was dirty. On other occasions, birds and other animals could drink from the source."

But now that the water in Imbinga is clean and easy to collect, these problems are no longer a concern for its people.

"[Collecting water] is very easy," Brian said, smiling. "I just take a container, fetch water quickly, and run home. These stairs are good, and [it] makes me feel [good] to come here frequently to fetch water."

Brian's family has used this water to improve their household hygiene, which equates to a better quality of life for everyone. And, thankfully, they still remember the soap-making lesson from the hygiene training!

"We use this water to make soap sometimes with my mother," Brian said. "This water has saved our time due to easier access. It has helped me to do my cleanliness easier and efficiently."

Brian, right, with other boys at the spring.