A Year Later: Less Walking Time to Water!

Ten-year-old Mercy described what life was like for her before a well was installed in her community last year. "I had to accompany my parents to the scoop holes under the burning sun for several kilometers because I also had to carry water to school as requested by the school’s administration."

She continued, "The water was mostly contaminated and salty because it was acquired from open scoop holes and a dug well. This exposed me to infections such as amoeba, stomachaches, and typhoid. Since we had to use water sparingly at home, my personal hygiene and sanitation [were] negatively affected."

But things are different for Mercy and her fellow community members now.

"Getting water from this implemented water point is a great reprieve because I no longer have to walk several kilometers searching for water, thanks to its proximity to the community," said Mercy. "I also do not have to wake up during early morning hours with my parents to search for water."

"Hygiene and sanitation have improved at home because there is sufficient water to bathe, [and] wash garments and utensils. Apart from improved hygiene and sanitation, drinking clean water has reduced the risk of contracting infections like [an] amoeba, typhoid, and dysentery," concluded Mercy. "My improved academic performance has been possible because I now focus all my time and energy on [my] studies."

The water in the photo below is not totally clear, and we believe that is because of iron in the water. While iron found in drinking water is usually an aesthetic quality, the community can still use the water without concern for health issues.

We often find that the water clears as the sand dam that supplies the well matures. This well was designed to protect against outside contamination and provide safer water than the unprotected sources this community may have been using.

Mercy (right) having a drink with another community member.