A Year Later: Iguyio Primary School

A year ago, generous donors helped build a rainwater catchment system and latrines for Iguyio Primary School in 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, Joan Were, with you.

School administration has stepped up to ensure that this rainwater catchment tank continues to serve students with clean water. 14-year-old student Abigail Khayosa told us, "The tank has really helped us as students. Before it, we used to fetch water from a river which is an hour away from the school... just to clean our latrines and classrooms! Now we have access to clean water for drinking and we no longer waste studying time going to the river." However, she added that "during the evening when we clean our classrooms, we must line up at the tank for a long time as we wait for community members to fetch water."

Abigail standing beside her senior teacher after fetching water from the tank.

We asked the senior teacher, Erick Akumonyo, about this. He admitted that "the water tank not only serves the school, but also the neighboring community. The villagers feel entitled to the water because they helped construct the tank. During the dry season, we lock the tap to sustain or students for a longer period of time, but the community members come and break the tap."

Thankfully, Mr. Akumonyo said there's enough clean water to meet the needs of his school. "We as Iguyio Primary School are very happy with this water project. Our students no longer have to go to the river to fetch water for cleaning the classrooms and latrines. Cleaning is now swift and enjoyable for the students and we have access to clean water for drinking and cooking," he said.

Joan Were and the rest of WeWaSaFo staff will continue to visit Iguyio Primary School to best support them as they resolve disputes with neighboring community members.

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.