The 280 residents of the Lunyiko Community struggle to access clean, sufficient water. Their naturally flowing spring is contaminated, dangerous to access, and causes strife within the community.
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/the-water-project/image/upload/c_fill,dpr_auto,q_auto,f_auto,w_auto/WP-Uploads/community/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Kenya420061-Kenya420061-Water-Source-2-11539-1.jpg)
The spring.
"The waterpoint is in the middle of a bush with dangerous terrain, looking pathetic. The water from the source tastes weird with a very bad smell, making it unsuitable for consumption. A closer look shows that its color is greenish and cloudy, adding to the fear they already have in regard to the safety of the water," described Field Officer Joyce Naliaka.
Susan Okumu, 55, a farmer and mother, is well acquainted with the fear related to the water from their spring.
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/the-water-project/image/upload/c_fill,dpr_auto,q_auto,f_auto,w_auto/WP-Uploads/community/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Kenya420061-Kenya420061-Susan-Okumu-2-11526-1.jpg)
Susan Okuma.
"As we speak right now, my daughter is down, battling diarrhea caused by drinking water from the source. It hasn't been easy for me since I have to leave everything on hold so that I can attend to her," said Susan.
"I tried over-the-counter medication, but it didn't work. I decided to take her to a dispensary five kilometers (three miles) away, which took all the income I had on me. Treating waterborne diseases is very expensive. This really strains my finances. I have also missed several opportunities on account of attending to waterborne diseases that have reduced my productivity," said Susan.
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/the-water-project/image/upload/c_fill,dpr_auto,q_auto,f_auto,w_auto/WP-Uploads/community/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Kenya420061-Kenya420061-People-Carrying-Water-11535-1.jpg)
Susan carrying water.
"I'm worried because the water, being contaminated, poses risks that could one day cost our lives. Knowing that the water we consume harms my family's health takes a toll on my mental health, creating significant sress and anxiety," she continued.
Fearing for her children's lives is an everyday affair for Susan, but she has no other options. Sickness isn't the only downfall of this waterpoint. The spring's state means low discharge and long lines, which create contention within the community and cause quarrels.
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/the-water-project/image/upload/c_fill,dpr_auto,q_auto,f_auto,w_auto/WP-Uploads/community/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Kenya420061-Kenya420061-People-Collecting-Water-11538-1.jpg)
Community members waiting to collect water.
"I have experienced harassment several times while waiting for water due to the long queues that are always witnessed during morning hours and in the evening, thus creating chaos and causing commotion. Sometimes, I feel frustrated and leave without fetching water. Quarreling has continuously led to a tense and unfriendly environment amongst us and also led to conflicts within the household," she added.
Protecting the Lunyiko Community Spring gives Susan a chance to experience a day without fear. Her children will be able to go to school uninterrupted, and her income won't be drained by constant crises related to waterborne diseases.
"A new waterpoint will bring peace, knowing there will be no more quarrels, and also, the area around the waterpoint will be safe for everyone to fetch water. I would use that time to participate in development activities to improve my life and that of other community members," concluded Susan.
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.