Access to clean water helps build Ritah's self-confidence!

Fourteen-year-old Ritah recalled what life was like in the Kyakaki Community before her community’s well was implemented last February.

“I used to fetch water from the borehole in this village called Kyakaki Malaya, but it was far, about 1km from my home. The water point would frequently break down. It required one to have enough energy to pump water. The water point would always be crowded, which would make me spend a lot of time. Sometimes I would go back home without water and also fail to wash my uniform which affected my personal hygiene and made me uncomfortable at school. The pump handle for the waterpoint was also hard, making it difficult for one to pump water. It would require one to use a lot of energy,” shared Ritah.

Collecting water is now simpler and more convenient for Ritah and the other community members in Kyakaki.

“I no longer move long distances to look for water and the water point is not crowded at all therefore I don't spend a lot of time looking for water. The pump handle for the new water point is not hard, making it easy for me to pump water, and I am assured of water every time I go to the well,” continued Ritah.

Having ready access to water from the well has made a difference, allowing Ritah to improve her daily hygiene practices and feel more confident.

"My hygiene has also improved because I am able to bathe and wash my school uniforms every day. At least now I go to school with confidence because I know I am clean to fit [in] among my fellow students," said Ritah.

"Since I have water available, I am planning to keep proper hygiene so that I get the award for being the smartest student in my school," Ritah concluded.