A Year Later: Wamuhila Community

A year ago, generous donors helped protect Isabwa Spring for Wamuhila Community in Western Kenya. In addition, the contributions of incredible monthly donors and others giving directly to The Water Promise allow 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 – we’re excited to share this one from our partner, Jacqueline Shigali, with you.

Health facilities around Majengo no longer experience long lines of patients since hygiene-related diseases have decreased, Daudi Sabwa, the secretary of the water user committee, observed. In addition to that, united action by community members to clean the water point and discuss matters concerning their spring has created a peaceful bond.

A good number of homesteads that did not have pit latrines when we first met them have now constructed those important facilities in their homes. The community no longer uses mosquito nets to shield vegetables from chicken, but they use them properly to prevent malaria. No clothes are seen spread on the grass or stones to dry, since each household now has a clothesline.

"Practicing good hygiene is now part of me. I used to be so reluctant about it but since we got this project, which came with a lot of health education, I feel compelled to practice high standards of sanitation and hygiene for my own good," Mr. Sabwa said.

Daudi Sabwa

Rita Andesia, a 10-year-old girl in the community, says that having this convenient spring protection frees up her time to study. She witnessed a decrease in sicknesses and absenteeism at her school, Chango Primary.

And this is attributed to the availability of clean water and latrines, and the generally improved hygiene in her village. As a result, Rita’s family can spend money on kerosene for lamps instead of medicine to treat the illnesses caused by dirty water.

"I can wake up any time I want in the morning and also study as long as I want after taking supper before going to bed," she said.

Rita Andesia

The protection of Isabwa Spring is only one step along the journey toward sustainable access to clean water. The Water Project and WEWASAFO (our trusted local partner) are 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 protection in Wamuhila Community is changing many lives. This is only possible because of the web of support and trust built between The Water Project, WEWASAFO, 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.