A Year Later: Saul Shivogo Spring

A year ago, generous donors helped build a spring protection and sanitation platforms with the community near Saul Shivogo Spring in Western Kenya. Because of these gifts and contributions from our monthly donors, partners are able to visit project sites throughout the year, strengthening relationships with communities and evaluating the actual water project. These consistent visits allow us to learn vital lessons and hear amazing stories – we’re excited to share this one from our partner, Betty Muhongo Majani, with you.

The spring protection is already making a huge difference in the lives of those living nearby. In fact, the number of households drawing water from it has increased from 19 to 22 because of the facilities and training.

“Sanitation has generally improved,” says Saul Shivogo, chairperson and land owner of whom the spring is named after. “When we pass homes, we are able to see a number of sanitation facilities like dish rack, clothesline, and children washing their hands after using the toilet. This clearly indicates they took seriously what they learned during the Water Sanitation Management Committee and Community Health Workers training.

“Before the spring was protected, the women and children wasted time while waiting for the queue to clear before fetching again,” explains 12-year-old Christopher Were. “But, at the moment, members take the shortest time possible and we now have time to do our homework.”

Mr. Saul also stated that since the spring was protected, there has been no report on water borne diseases which has contributed to members doing other development activities instead of spending a lot of money on medication. Truth be told, protection of this spring has united many families because they meet on monthly basis to discuss issues to do with spring and their families too.

The Water Project and our partners are committed to consistent monitoring of each water source. Our monitoring and evaluation program, made possible by monthly donors, allows us to visit communities up to 4 times a year. Read more about our program and how you can help.