A Year Later: Simuli Community, Lihala Sifoto Spring

A year ago, your generous donation enabled us to protect Lihala Sifoto Spring for Simuli 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 Wilson Kipchoge with you.

For this community, access to safe clean drinking water is no longer just a dream. Every member is assured of safe water that's free from contamination because every possible route of contamination has been sealed off.

"Having the spring protected has brought relief to us because we now take very short time to fetch safe clean water. Cases of water-related diseases have completely been eradicated through this intervention, and the community members walk comfortably to the water source," said Irene Munyasa to us during a recent visit to the spring.

Irene Munyasa

We observed that homes are well-kept; there are clean homes, clotheslines, compost pits, and a green environment at every household. The environment is very good. It is filled with trees and flowers which makes the whole place attractive.

These changes are the result of the available water from the protected spring and the hygiene and sanitation training that was carried out on proper health practices.

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 project in Simuli, Kenya is changing many lives.

"Since last year, I have been able to drink very safe and clean water from the spring," said 8-year-old Rebecca Askio. "Ever since this spring was protected, I go to school on a regular basis because I don't get sick."

Rebecca Asiko

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.