A Year Later: Shikoti Community, Alunyoli Spring

A year ago, your generous donation enabled us to protect Alunyoli Spring for Shikoti Community in Kenya. The contributions of incredible monthly donors and others giving directly to The Water Promise allow our local 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 local team member Joan Were with you.

"Since the spring was protected, fetching water is now an efficient task for us," spring caretaker Boniface Shikuku told us during a recent visit.

"Before the spring was protected, it used to grow algae in it. It doesn't anymore. We are very grateful for you caring about us and our health."

Boniface Shikuku

The availability of safe drinking water and access to sanitation facilities has improved children's attendance in school. This is due to the reduced cases of waterborne and hygiene-related diseases. The community now has a chance to grow economically because of the time, energy, and resources saved from access to improved water and sanitation. Households can now focus more on engaging in productive and income-generating activities.

"I now have time to do my homework because I spend only a few minutes at the spring fetching water for cooking, washing and cleaning dishes," 9-year-old Purity Khavai said.

Protection of the spring 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 spring in Shikoti is changing many lives.

"Since the spring was constructed, I report to school in a clean uniform because washing is now easy and enjoyable. The clean water from the spring does not discolor our clothes," Purity said.

Purity Khavai

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.