A Year Later: Time for Learning!

Thirty-five-year-old teacher Emily Mwende recalled what life was like at the Winzyeii Secondary School before the school's rain tank was implemented last year.

"Although we had tanks in the school, they could not hold enough water to sustain us during the entire drought period. We had to purchase water, which was very expensive and drained the school's meager funds. The purchased water was also unclean, and most of our learners could complain of stomach pains. We could barely clean the latrines and classrooms because water had to be used sparingly, and [this] led to poor hygiene within the school," said Emily.

Collecting water is now quicker and more convenient for Emily and the students at Winzyeii Secondary School.

"The implementation of this tank within the school has been a great relief from the previous water shortage. We no longer pay for water because the implemented tank can hold enough water for the entire drought period. We are able to have our meals on time, and we have clean water to drink. I am glad that I am able to teach in a clean environment because we have enough water to conduct regular hygiene practices. Our learners are no longer prone to water-related infections like stomach upsets; thus, they are always present for their lessons," Emily continued.

Having ready access to water from the rain tank has made a difference for Emily and her students, allowing them to use their time to focus on learning instead of trying to find and collect water.

"We are now able to purchase more learning material for our students because water expenses have greatly reduced. This has attracted more learners to our school, and our academic performance has also improved because there is enough water in the school. The health of our students has also improved because they are drinking clean water and meals are prepared on time," concluded Emily.

Plenty of clean water!