A Year Later: Growing Crops in the Dry Season!

"I used to move long distances to the open hole to fetch water. It was a tiresome process, as I had to fetch [water] several times [a day]," said 14-year-old Ester N., as she recalled what life was like before a well was installed in her community last year.

She continued, "The water would be colored sometimes. The crowd at the open hole was big, and fetching from the hole was also dangerous."

But now, life for Ester and her fellow community members is different. They can do things they previously found nearly impossible.

"[I am] growing vegetables during the dry season. I have planted matooke (similar to plantains) and vegetables. I use the water from the borehole for irrigation since it's near my home," said Ester.

Who knows what the future could hold for Ester as she matures with ready access to clean, sufficient water.

"I'm able to wash my clothes and keep my personal hygiene since I have plenty of water to bathe. [And] we now have clean water for drinking," Ester concluded.

Community members fetching water from the well.