Rehabilitation Project
In the Shisisini Community, 98 residents rely on Dishon Spring as their source of water. Though this spring was once protected by another organization, it has since fallen into disrepair. Its current state affects the quality of water and creates long lines that community members must wait in to collect the water they need to survive.
Making the journey home.
Thirty-two-year-old Ruth Burundi is a local farmer and mother. She has seen the quality of water go downhill and sacrificed crucial time waiting in line.
Ms. Burundi in the spring.
We asked Ruth about her concerns about their spring. She said, "This water feature is malfunctioning. We fervently hope that it will be protected so that we can keep having access to pure, safe water for consumption."
Though the water appears clear, it is not clean, especially in the rainy season, when pollutants run rampant. The spring is damaged and can not properly filter the water.
Clear water doesn't mean clean water.
"Life has truly transformed since this spring broke down because, as a result of pollution, the shade of the water varies during the wet seasons. We have to wait for the water to settle before we can fetch whenever this happens," Ruth continued.
Ruth has many responsibilities. She must farm to feed her family and earn an income, which is a full-time job in itself. She also works hard to care for her family's needs and has the added role of ensuring her family has sufficient water to use at home. They can't be picky about the quality as they have no other options.
"In my life, water is practically everything. I need water for cleaning, bathing, cooking, drinking, washing, and many other activities; thus, I cannot exist without it," she added.
With clean water access, Ruth can devote time to the important matters in her life. She won't be bogged down by waiting in line or concerned about the water she brings home to her family. With that burden lifted, the possibilities are endless.
Ms. Burundi caring for her livestock.
"I would grow vegetables on my farm or even take care of my animals with the extra time I would have. I would also utilize the extra time to clean my clothing or complete other household tasks," Ruth concluded.
Protecting the Shisisini Communtiy spring has benefits that will last generations. Ruth can have the tools to create a brighter future for herself and her children with clean water access.
Steps Toward a Solution
Our technical experts worked with the local community to identify the most effective solution to their water crisis. They decided to safeguard the existing flowing spring.
Spring Protection
Springs are natural water sources that originate from deep underground. As water travels through various layers of the earth, it undergoes a natural filtration process, making it cleaner and safer to drink. To protect these spring sources from contamination, we construct a waterproof cement structure around layers of clay, stone, and soil. This design channels the spring water through a discharge pipe, facilitating easier, faster, and cleaner water collection.
Chlorine Dispenser
As an extra measure towards water quality safety, uniquely engineered chlorine dispensers are installed at all of our spring protection projects so community members can treat their water with pre-measured doses of chlorine. The chlorine treats any residual contamination and stays active for two to three days, ensuring water stays safe to use even when stored at home. Chlorine delivery and maintenance of the dispensers are part of our ongoing community support.
Community Education & Ownership
Hygiene and sanitation training are integral to our water projects. Training is tailored to each community's specific needs and includes key topics such as proper water handling, improved hygiene practices, disease transmission prevention, and care of the new water point. Safe water and improved hygiene habits foster a healthier future for everyone in the community. Encouraged and supported by the guidance of our team, a water user committee representative of the community's diverse members assumes responsibility for maintaining the water point, often gathering fees to ensure its upkeep.
