A Year Later: "Now the water is very clean."

Before the spring was protected in Mang'uliro last year, people spent too much time collecting dirty water, often making them ill with water-related illnesses.

"We were fetching water [from] a hole using containers, and it's the same containers we would use to carry water. The process of fetching water resulted [in] getting a mixture of dirty and clean water," said 14-year-old Hope N.

But things have been improved for Hope and others that rely on Kharinda spring since the spring protection.

"Now the water is very clean. I enjoy fetching water each time I am sent to do so since I know I am fetching and taking home clean water within a short period of time. Before taking water home, I also ensure I treat it with chlorine," said Hope. "Spring safety has been enhanced; thus, our security is guaranteed. I don't hesitate to go there. I also enjoy making many trips to the spring because when I remember how beautiful it is by the decorations done to it."

Now that Hope can quickly collect safe water, she has time for other activities that were often neglected before the spring's protection.

"Minimal time [is] used in getting water; thus, a lot of time is invested in doing other activities, especially [my] school assignments," concluded Hope.

Hope (far right) with friends at the spring.