Giving Update: Ikuusya Community Sand Dam

The people in Ikuusya community have been enjoying a good water supply from their sand dam and hand-dug well for the last year. The water point has consistently provided water to the village population for the last year, saving them from long-distance travel in search of water to meet their daily needs.

"This water project has brought clean water close to my homestead. I no longer have to undertake the 4 kilometers I used to walk in search of water," said Mwikali Kimwele, chair of the water user committee.

"Now, it takes me less than 20 minutes to draw water from the well and get it home. This has availed me [with] more time to work on personal development activities. That was not possible in the past."

For Makaa Mutunga, the proximity to the well means she can help fetch water for her family. The 9-year-old's mother did not allow her to get water in the past because the journey was so long.

"Fetching water has become more fun and I can fetch so many trips in a day. The water is clean and sweet to drink," she said.

Livestock and other domestic animals can now get water for drinking easily from the new water point without having to travel for long distances either. This development is saving time and improving the health of animals.

Makaa Mutunga

In addition, the constant water supply from the new water point is helping improve levels of hygiene and sanitation at the household level as water is available.

"Since the implementation of this water project, I have been able to shower on a daily basis and put on clean clothes because water is always available at home," Makaa said.