A Year Later: Malaha Primary School

A year ago, your generous donation enabled us to construct a rainwater catchment tank for Malaha 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 Mary Afandi with you.

After the completion of the water, sanitation and hygiene project, Malaha Primary School has access to safe and quality water. The pupils used to carry water from their respective homes to school to be used for drinking and cooking. This project saves the children valuable time and energy that enables them to concentrate in the studies.

"The pupils are very happy because they are now accessing safe and clean water. The ready availability of water has resulted in an increase in the number of pupils at the school," Headteacher Dominic Barasa told us during a recent visit.

"In addition, there is a remarkable improvement in the academic performance at the school."

Initially, Malaha Primary School did not have enough latrines. Most of the latrines were in poor conditions and posed a health hazard to the school community. The latrines that were constructed last year have alleviated this problem, 16-year-old student Kevin Lutomia said to us. He also noted the fact that he now spends more time studying thanks to the time saved not waiting to use the bathroom or fetching water for school. In addition, the handwashing facilities make it possible for the students to wash their hands after visiting toilets.

"The toilets have reduced congestion when the pupils want to use them," Headteacher Barasa added.

From left to right: Kevin Lutomia, Mary Afandi, and Headteacher Barasa

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.

Kevin Lutomia turns on the tap at the tank

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 in Malaha Primary School is changing many lives.

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.