Shikutse Community 3

July, 2026: Shikutse Community Spring Protection Complete!

Your contribution has made access to clean water for the Shikutse Community possible!

We transformed their spring into a flowing source of naturally filtered water. A chlorine dispenser is installed to provide added protection, and we trained the community on improved sanitation and hygiene practices. Together, these components will unlock the opportunity for community members to thrive!

"We were scared to send our children to the spring sometimes because children are just children. They would go out, get into a fight or start playing, then come back with injuries or bleeding. This new water point has good access, and it allows us as parents to worry a little less. We know they are safe and they will come back home in one piece. The water is also clean, so we don't worry much about consuming dirty water. They will grow up safe and healthy," said Pamela Musambai, a 52-year-old community leader and chairperson of the water user committee.

Children were just as excited as adults about clean water access!

"Now the waterpoint is easy to access and use. I will have more time to study, play, and help at home. I also feel safer, and our family will be healthier because we have clean water," celebrated 11-year-old Laura.

Preparing for Spring Protection

Community members worked together to source all locally available construction materials for the spring. These included bricks, sand, stones, and fencing poles. Because people have to carry most items by hand, the material-collection process can take anywhere from a few weeks to months.

When the community was ready, we delivered the remaining construction materials, including cement, plastic tarps, and hardware. Then our construction artisan and field officers deployed to the spring to begin work.

"The community demonstrated active and committed participation throughout the material-gathering and construction process. Community members held meetings where they collectively agreed on mechanisms for sourcing, contributing, and gathering materials. They also organized how to provide food and support to the artisans during construction. This strong coordination, shared responsibility, and voluntary contribution ensured the project ran smoothly and was successful," said Field Officer Betty Muhongo.

Protecting the Spring: A Step-by-Step Process

First, we excavated the spring area. This includes digging a drainage channel below the spring and several runoff diversion channels above and around the spring to help divert surface contaminants away.

To ensure community members could still access water throughout the construction process, we also dug temporary channels around the construction site to allow water to continue to flow. Excavation created space for setting the spring's foundation.

After establishing the base, made of thick plastic, wire, concrete and waterproof cement, we started brickwork to build the spring walls and stairs. Once the walls were tall enough, we began one of the most crucial steps: setting the discharge pipe. The discharge pipe needs to be positioned low enough so the water level never rises above the spring's eye, yet high enough to allow room for the average collection container (20-liters) to sit beneath the pipe without making contact, to prevent cross-contamination.

If we place the pipe too high, back pressure could force water to emerge elsewhere. Too low, and community members would not be able to access the water easily.

In coordination with the walls and stairs, we cemented stones on both sides of the spring's drainage channel. These stones discourage people and animals from standing in that area, which could cause soil erosion and a clogged drainage area.

We then cemented and plastered the spring walls. These finishing layers reinforce the brickwork and prevent water in the reservoir from seeping through. In turn, enough pressure builds to push water out through the discharge pipe.

As the walls cured, we finished the stairs and installed tiles beneath the discharge pipe. The tiles protect the concrete from the falling water's erosive force.

We redirected the temporary diversion channels back into the reservoir box and closed all other exits to force water through only the discharge pipe. We filled the reservoir area with the large, clean stones arranging them in layers like a well-fitting puzzle. We covered the rocks with thick plastic and piled enough dirt on top to compensate for future settling.

Community members transplanted grass to help prevent erosion and the collection area was fenced. The fence prevents people or animals from walking in the area above the spring, as compaction of this area can potentially compromise water quality.

The construction process took about two weeks of work and patience. As soon as the spring was ready, people received permission from their local field officers to fetch water.

We officially transferred ownership of the waterpoint to the Shikutse Community. Happiness and thanksgiving flowed in all directions!

Training on Health, Hygiene, and More

Together with the community, we determined their preferred training date. When the day arrived, facilitators Betty Muhongo, Victor Musemi, Wycliffe Kireda, and Samuel Simidi deployed to the site to lead the event. 17 people attended the training, including 11 women and six men.

Handwash training.

We discussed personal, oral, and environmental hygiene, emphasizing proper water handling, soap-making, and the ten steps of handwashing. We also highlighted the importance of primary health care and covered the operation and maintenance of the water point, as well as leadership and governance. By the end of the training, each participant had a clear understanding of their role in maintaining clean water and promoting good health within their community.

Soap-making session.

We held an election for the newly formed water user committee, which will oversee the maintenance of the spring. We brainstormed income-generating activities and encouraged them to start a group savings account for future minor repairs to the spring.

"The topic that prompted the most discussion was personal hygiene, especially dental hygiene. During the meeting, participants shared their experiences and challenges with reminding children and family members to maintain good hygiene. The facilitator encouraged everyone not to give up, explaining that consistent reminders, leading by example, and patience usually bring positive changes over time. Many participants found this discussion relatable and motivating, as it highlighted real-life struggles and practical solutions for improving family hygiene," shared Field Officer Betty.

Fifty-eight-year-old John Wafula shared his thoughts about the training.

John Wafula.

"The most interesting topic we covered in the hygiene training was spring maintenance. It was interesting to me because I learned how important it is to keep our water source clean and protected for everyone’s health. We discussed simple but important practices, like removing dirt around the spring, keeping the area fenced, and checking for any leaks or damage. I learned that if we all take care of the spring regularly, we can prevent water contamination, have clean water all the time, and help our families and community stay healthy," he said.

"This training has changed the way I think about hygiene for myself, my family, and my community. I have learned the importance of keeping ourselves and our surroundings clean, like washing hands regularly, brushing teeth, and maintaining the water spring," he continued. "I feel more motivated to practice good hygiene every day and encourage others in the community to do the same."

Thank you for making all of this possible!

June, 2026: Exciting Progress in the Shikutse Community!

We’re thrilled to share that, thanks to your generous support, significant change is coming for Sylvia and the entire Shikutse Community. Construction has begun on the spring protection project, bringing them one step closer to having clean, reliable water.

But that's not all—during construction, we’re also providing vital health training. These sessions equip the community with essential hygiene practices, ensuring that the benefits of clean water extend to lasting health improvements.

We’re so grateful for your role in making this possible. Stay tuned for more updates—soon, we’ll be celebrating the arrival of safe water in the Shikutse Community!