A Year Later: Irenji Primary School

A year ago, your generous donation enabled us to construct a rainwater tank for Irenji Primary 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 local team member Jacklyne Chelagat with you.

The students at Irenji Primary School arrive early each day and carry out a thorough cleaning of the school grounds. When they play in the afternoon, they take breaks to drink water from the rainwater tank on the school grounds. And when they have to use the bathroom, they enjoy the clean latrines and do not have to wait in line to use them. In addition, cases of absenteeism have reduced as a notable amount as pupils no longer get sick as a result of consuming dirty water from the stream.

All this is attributed to construction of the rainwater tank and latrines a year ago.

"I want to sincerely thank you for such a noble job done in my school," said Deputy Headteacher Rodah Muhati.

Rodah Muhati and Field Officer Jacklyne Chelegat

"As a school, we have suffered enough for not having clean and safe water for consumption, sufficient latrines, good handwashing facilities, and adequate information on water, sanitation and hygiene. As I speak, all of the fore-mentioned issues have been fully addressed, and currently we are experiencing nothing but the best.

Construction of the 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 project in Irenji Primary School is changing many lives.

"My academic performance has improved and this is attributed to the ability to attend 100% of class lessons," said Venus Muhonje.

Venus Muhonje

"I am experiencing good health courtesy of your work. May God bless you."

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.