A Year Later: Improved Income and Food Security!

"We had to carry water in jerrycans to school under the scorching sun for several kilometers," said 13-year-old Lucy M., a student at Ndithi Primary School, when recalling what life was like before a rain tank was installed at her school last year. "The water extracted from open scoop holes was contaminated and led to infections such as typhoid, stomachaches, amoeba, and dysentery."

"Due to the insufficient water, we had to drink the little available water to quench our thirst which, negatively affected attention and concentration during lessons," said Lucy.

But the rain tank installed on her school campus has made a dramatic difference for Lucy since then.

"I now have enough water to drink and wash my hands, thanks to the implemented water project," said Lucy. "I am also no longer exposed to water-related infections which ensures [my] optimum health; thus, I can come to school every day."

Not only does Lucy have sufficient water to drink now, but she also has more energy since she no longer has to walk long distances while carrying heavy containers full of water.

"I also do not have to carry water to school anymore and I have devoted all my energy and time to improving my grades," said Lucy. "This water point has improved my capacity to achieve better grades that will allow me to be selected to a better secondary school in my quest to become a doctor someday."

In addition to excelling in school, Lucy has also been able to share the information she is learning at school with her family.

"The implemented project has helped me study and practice agriculture because there is enough water to irrigate the crops. I have shared that knowledge with my parents so that they can improve their source of income and food security," concluded Lucy.

Lucy at the rain tank with a classmate.