Giving Update: Kitandini Community

September, 2019

A year ago, your generous donation helped Kitandini Community in Kenya access clean water – creating a life-changing moment for Ruth Ngulu. Thank you!

Giving Update: Kitandini Community


The environment of Kaliani and Kitandini villages has improved and regained its stature in the year since the completion of their sand dam and hand-dug well. The area is very green with most farms bordering the water source being full of food crops to harvest.

Community members are happy.

"The water we attain now is very clean and fresh for drinking," said Francis Mutua, Chair of the water committee for the well and dam.

"The sand dam has harvested volumes of water which we have used for farming and the plantation of French beans. This extensive farming has provided job opportunities for young adults in the area which has reduced robbery and drug abuse."

The people here are hard workers whose major activity is farming. The community members have harnessed the water harvested by their sand dam for farming of French beans which are sold to be exported to other countries. Thanks to the water project, the community members were identified by an international export company to farm French beans for sale. This is a big milestone for them as they are earning an income and can now sustain their families' needs.

One person who has experienced the benefits of the water from the dam is Ruth Ngulu, a 36-year-old farmer. She has a 2-acre plot of land that sat idle for many years because there was not enough water. Now, it is full of crops.

"Since the water project was constructed in this area, I farm exclusively for agribusiness," she said.

"I have planted French beans, maize, tomatoes, and kale. Using water pumps, I draw water from the river to my farm for irrigation."

Personal and household compound hygiene is easily achieved because the water project is near community members' homesteads. Thanks to the soapmaking and handwashing training, people here always wash their hands after visiting the latrine using soap and water, said Mr. Mutua. As a result, there are fewer cases of diarrhea and stomachaches being reported.



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