A Year Later: Water Leads to Income Generation!

Thirty-five-year-old farmer Brian Ayesiga recalled what life was like in Kiryamasasa Community before his community’s well was installed last year.

Brian said, "Before the establishment of this project, getting water was a very big struggle. When the water point was [originally] drilled, maintenance became [a] problem as communities were not willing to regularly collect money for operation and maintenance; hence the well went into a very bad state due to [the lack of] maintenance. It was no longer functional [for a] long period [of time]; thus, we resorted to [using a] well in [the] next village that is far off. [It was] about 2 km (over a mile) [away]. We would spend a lot of time, about two hours, waiting to draw water due to overcrowding and [the] long queues at the water point."

But life is much more productive for Brian and the other community members in Kiryamasasa now because their well has been rehabilitated and can be relied upon.

"After [the] rehabilitation of this borehole, it is very easy to collect water. It is near, [there is] no overcrowding and so the queuing time is less. [The] Water Committee was elected through community engagement meetings, and a Self Help Group was also formed, which has supported us greatly in maintaining the water source. We have a natural leader who keeps following up with each household to maintain sanitation and hygiene," said Brian.

Having ready access to water from the well has made a difference for Brian, allowing him and other community members to implement better hygiene practices.

"Currently, there are general cleanliness and personal hygiene improvements hence reducing the risks of contracting WASH-related diseases," said Brian.

Thank you for helping Brian access clean water, which has also provided other improvements.

"I resumed my poultry business since access to water is now easy [to retrieve]. I had the chicken business before, but due to water challenges, I stopped. With the availability of water, I resumed the business, where I am able to earn a living. I also joined the savings group, where I am able to save and even borrow money. Now paying my children's school fees is not a problem," concluded Brian.

Right now, there are others just like him in neighboring communities that desperately need safe water access. Your support will immediately go to work to provide a clean water project - and we can’t wait to introduce you to the next person you’ll help.

Brian standing near the well.