A Year Later: Nzung'u Community

A year ago, generous donors helped construct a sand dam and hand-dug well for Nzung'u Community in Kenya. The contributions of incredible monthly donors and others giving directly to The Water Promise allow 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 Titus Mbithi with you.

"The long journeys to Nuu River in search of water have ended since the installation of this water point," Kasyoka Mwendwa, chairperson of the local self-help group, said.

"This has relieved many women in our village the fatigue associated with fetching water now that water is always available at a stone's throw distance from our homesteads."

It is a remarkable change for people who had to travel more than 4 kilometers just to fetch water. There is a palpable excitement in the community. People are preparing crops and undertaking other new activities in anticipation of the sand dam producing even more water!

Construction of the dam and well 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.

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 dam and well in Nzung'u is changing many lives.

Mature sand dam

"Since the installation of this project my personal hygiene has greatly improved, taking shower on a daily basis as water is available in adequate volumes and thus no need for rationing at the household level," Musya Muthengi said.

The excess water is also making it easier for Musya to feed his cattle. They used to have to go days without going to a water point to drink, but now the animals get water every day after grazing in the fields. He also noted the benefit for families.

"Small children enjoy the fun of drawing water from the well as its looks interesting to them. Such an opportunity has only been presented through the installation of the water point near their homes. The availability of clean drinking water is aiding in the building of a healthy community," he explained.

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.