A Year Later: The Goodness of Having Clean Water

Last year, before a well was installed in Kathungutu Community, community members had to walk nearly three kilometers to collect water.

“Before the construction of this project, life was very hard. We used to get water from very far [away], and the water was not very safe for drinking. We did not have enough water for maintaining our hygiene and sanitation as well as for watering our trees and other crops on the farm," said 10-year-old George N.

But since the well's installation (attached to a sand dam), things have improved for community members, including George, and water is now easily available. Although the dam is not fully mature yet (that usually takes a couple of years), it has filled and is providing sufficient water to the well.

“Now, I enjoy fetching water from this shallow well point," said George.

He continued: "I spend less time to come and draw water, which enables me to engage in other important activities like conducting cleaning chores, farming, or chatting with my friends. Our home now features better hygiene and sanitation standards because we have enough water to conduct cleaning exercises. I get more time to play with my friends and study, which has improved my academic performance."

George concluded: “I am very happy about this project, and the source has made me realize the goodness of having clean water near us."

George (in the red and black shirt) smiles and washes his hands at the well connected to the sand dam.