A Year Later: "My grandchildren are assured of clean water"

"Life before the implementation of this project was painfully difficult," shared Esther Kamene, a 42-year-old farmer, as she described life before a sand dam was installed in her community last year.

"We had to walk under the burning [sun] for about four kilometers in search of water from the scoop holes and dug well that were usually overcrowded. Our donkeys could succumb to the exhaustion of carrying water. Also, livestock rearing and crop cultivation led to poor or no yields because of the water scarcity. The long walks and queues also led to time wastage and exhaustion; thus, we could not fully focus on farming," said Esther.

But things are different now. "The implemented project is nearby and offers clean water that can sustain the community during the long drought periods," commented Esther.

"I use all my energy and time to improve farming. I grow crops such as maize, beans, and vegetables that give me high yields. The project has also led to better food security and [a] source of income. I have grown vegetables for domestic and sales purposes, thanks to the implemented shallow well and sand dam," said Esther.

But not only is the project impacting Esther's life but also her grandchildren's lives.

"My grandchildren are assured of clean water that will sustain them during the long dry periods. They will no longer experience the previous hardships of water scarcity."

Our Note: The water is not clear due to the presence 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 sediment at the bottom of the well settles and 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. We will keep a close eye on the water quality of this well through our quarterly monitoring program and send an update as soon as it settles.

Esther (left) drinking water with fellow community members.