A Year Later: From Never Doing Homework to Teacher's Pet!

Thomas M., 12, shared what collecting water was like for him last year before Ucheka Spring was protected.

"Initially, I used to take a lot of time waiting for water to settle before drawing," he said. "I was forced to go to the spring very early in the morning or late in the evening for me to get clean water and save on time, too."

But now, Thomas can collect water with ease. "At the moment, I can go to the spring anytime since no one will make the water dirty," said Thomas.

Not only is it easier for Thomas to collect water, but it is also faster, giving him time to do other things.

"I now have time to help my parents at home and mingle with my friends," he said.

"I have time to do other duties both at home and school. My relationship with teachers has really improved because [I] am able to finish my homework compared to the time when the spring was not protected. I used to waste my precious time and most of the time I did not finish my homework."

Thomas at protected Ucheka Spring.