A Year Later: "No more conflicts among us!"

Last year before Shaka spring was protected, the community members living in Chepkuony had difficulty safely and quickly collecting water. They had to be careful on the muddy, narrow paths so they wouldn't slip and fall as they approached the water point, and they wasted their valuable time scooping water up little by little since the spring was so shallow. The painstakingly slow process often led to quarrels amongst community members and serious interruptions in their daily schedules.

"Going for water meant congestion, [and] conflicts amongst ourselves. It meant going at very odd hours in order to avoid people and conflicts," said 28-year-old farmer Melab Halima.

But since the spring was protected, things have changed for Melab and her fellow community members. Collecting water is now much easier, and there is less reason for conflict.

"After installation, I enjoy getting water because now everyone is sure of fetching water without having to wait for long hours. No more conflicts among us!" said Melab.

With less time wasted at the waterpoint Melab now has time for other important things that used to get delayed or neglected, which positively impacts her whole family.

"Little time spent at the water has helped me to be able to manage time for chores around the house. My children always find their lunch ready as soon as they come for lunch, unlike [in] previous times," concluded Melab.

Melab at the protected spring.