A Year Later: "I drink water anytime I feel thirsty"

We asked 12-year-old student Pauline what it was like to collect water before we installed a well at Ibokolo Primary School last year.

"Getting water was very tiresome for us. This affected us both mentally and physically, resulting [in a] lack of concentration in class, hence poor performance," said Pauline. "We could spend the whole day without water to drink. If one was lucky, she could only take half a cup."

But now that Ibokolo has a well of its own, things are different for Pauline and her classmates, and water is plentiful.

"No more carrying water to school since the water source provides us with reliable and safe water," said Pauline. "I drink water any time I feel thirsty, and this has resulted [in] me being well hydrated all the time, which has improved my attention during class lessons."

Not only has Pauline's academics improved, but so has her health.

"I don't remember the last time I suffered from waterborne diseases like stomachache and typhoid since the water is very clean and safe for drinking," said Pauline. "We wash our classes and sanitation facilities daily, unlike before when we could only do it once for lack of enough water. In addition, we wash our hands frequently with water and soap to prevent hygiene-related illnesses."

Pauline (center) fetching a glass of water with a classmate and her teacher, Mr. Oduor.