Giving Update: Matsakha Community, Siseche Spring

Life for community members in Matsakha had a turning point last year when Siseshe Spring was protected. Before the spring protection, a lot of time was wasted waiting for the water to clear up between people in line before fetching it.

But, today this is a different story.

As we arrived in the community, we found women not at home, but at work so that they could earn some income to provide food for their families. This is because they no longer have to spend most of their time waiting for and fetching water. They hope their work will help to reduce poverty in their community. We also noticed that the children looked healthier and happier. All these improvements are a result of the WaSH project implementation in this community.

"I am happy that now we have clean and safe water...and this gives me enough time to study," said Alex Injendi, a high school-aged student in Matsakha.

Alex also noted that during this last dry season - one of the driest on record in Kenya - water did not flow through the spring's pipe for some days. Concerned the water had dried up in the drought, the water committee contacted our team of field officers.

Enjoying a drink from the spring

After a quick response and excavation of the spring, our team found that the clay works inside the spring had collapsed, leaving the water to flow through escape channels instead of the discharge pipe. After some repairs, clean water has been flowing since. This experience gave us continued to hope that this community is dedicated to the longevity of their water point, and will work to keep it functional and accessible to all.

Kids play with spring water

"I used to fear to come to fetch water in the spring, but now it is safe and we have clean water. Thank you," 15-year-old Sharon Shanjilia noted.

Sharon holds hands with another child at the spring