Giving Update: Kapsotik Primary School

While many know Kenya as a prized destination for international visitors, fewer know it is also a chronically water-scarce country. The ever-growing population is contributing to worsening conditions, but one school is changing its chapter of this story thanks to the installation of its WaSH project last year. Since then, Kapsotik Primary School has been enjoying improved access to clean and safe water directly from the school's compound.

Ever since the rain tank was installed at Kapsotik Primary School, pupils no longer carry water to school each day just to have something to drink.

The rain tank is energy-efficient for students and staff who no longer waste time or energy seeking water at school. It also saves them time, as we spotted pupils washing their hands and utensils and drinking water, all centrally located at the water point. The training we did with students has helped improve the health and environmental standards of the school community as well.

"As you all know, clean, safe water is essential for the satisfaction of life. The water and sanitation project in my school has meant all the positive difference and we are grateful," said Deputy Head Teacher Mr. Francis Imbuizi.

"The WaSH training has indeed brought a positive difference in our school. As an institution, we have come up with a program whereby regular training on water safety management and care are carried out...by the [student health] club that was formed during the training and this is done on a weekly basis."

Deputy Head Teacher Mr. Francis Imbuizi in front of his school's rain tank

"The academic time has also been saved as students are able to access water directly from the school's compound. The construction of the facilities has influenced [the enrollment of] 40 additional pupils in the school and we are grateful. Water from the tank is now secure, treated, and very reliable."

"As you can see, we currently have plenty of water for drinking, cleaning, and washing...For a long time, the school had faced water scarcity and indeed it had suffered a lot. As you all know, the right to water is essential for the survival of persons and decisive for the future of humanity."

Sheila Iravoga is a 13-year-old student at Kapsotik Primary School who was full of joy the day Field Officer Samuel Simidi interviewed her along with Mr. Imbuizi.

"[I] am so thankful to our partners for taking up the challenge, and creating a real impact with this quick solution in my school. Indeed [I] am experiencing positive impacts," Sheila said.

"[I] am no longer carrying water to school as [I] am able [to] access water directly from the school's compound. I now access water that is safe for drinking as it is treated more frequently. I have been able to create sufficient time for my academics thanks to our partners. The latrines have helped curb the congestion that we used to experience at the facilities, especially during the break time."

Sheila at the rain tank's tap