A Year Later: Ikaasu Secondary School

A year ago, your generous donation helped us construct a rainwater catchment tank for Ikaasu Secondary School in Kenya. The contributions of incredible monthly donors and others giving directly to The Water Promise allow our local teams to visit project sites throughout the year, strengthening relationships with communities and evaluating the water project over time. These consistent visits allow us to learn vital lessons and hear amazing stories – and we’re excited to share this one from Titus Mbithi with you.

The school community now enjoys an adequate clean water supply from the water tank for drinking, cooking, and cleaning of school amenities. Over the last one year, the school has been saving money which was initially spent to purchase water. Now, the money is being used to support the neediest students.

Levels of hygiene and sanitation are improving with the availability of enough clean water and the availability of handwashing facilities.

We spoke with Principal Michael Kyengo and one of his students, Boniface Mutinda about additional changes they have witnessed since the project.

"The water project has been providing the school community with clean drinking water," said Principal Kyengo.

"This has been a major boost towards a reduction of the water bill as the school initially bought water from various sources. The school community has witnessed improved levels of hygiene and sanitation, and this is attributed to the availability of clean water and the existence of a handwashing culture. Again, more students are now attracted to the school which has led to an increased student population and the boarding students."

From left to right: Boniface Mutinda, Titus Mbithi, and Principal Michael Kyengo

Construction of the rainwater catchment tank is only one step along the journey toward sustainable access to clean water. The Water Project is committed to consistent monitoring of each water source. Our monitoring and evaluation program, made possible by donors like you, allows us to maintain our relationships with communities by visiting up to 4 times each year to ensure that the water points are safe and reliable.

This is just one of the many ways that we monitor projects and communicate with you. Additionally, you can always check the functionality status and our project map to see how all of our water points are performing, based on our consistent monitoring data.

One project is just a drop in the bucket towards ending the global water crisis, but the ripple effects of this project are truly astounding. This tank at Ikaasu Secondary School is changing many lives.

"The challenge of water is now a past story, since the new water project is providing us with enough clean water for drinking and running the school routine smoothly," Boniface said.

"The availability of clean water from a trusted source has led to improved health with cases of stomach problems reported among students getting few. Students enjoy the now clean amenities such as classes and latrines which have provided a conducive learning environment."

This is only possible because of the web of support and trust built between The Water Project, our local teams, the community, and you. We are excited to stay in touch with this community and support their journey with safe water.

Read more about The Water Promise and how you can help.