Water Brings Josephat Security & Peace of Mind!

Thirty-eight-year-old farmer Josephat Mutunga recalled what life was like in the Yumbani Community before his community's sand dam was installed last year.

Before the Sand Dam Installation

"Before the sand dam project was built in our community last year, I faced several problems with water. One major issue was the scarcity of clean water, especially during the dry seasons. We had to walk long distances to fetch water from the River Miu. The water wasn't always safe for drinking. Sometimes, we had to settle for dirty water because no other options were available. This led to health problems like stomachaches and diarrhea for me and my family. Additionally, the lack of reliable water access made it challenging to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation practices, further exacerbating health concerns," said Josephat.

"Each morning, I would wake up knowing I had to embark on a long journey to fetch water for my family. Sometimes, we would have to travel for hours to reach the nearest water source, which was often unreliable and contaminated. The journey was arduous, especially during the dry season when water became even scarcer. We would have our donkeys and livestock all together for the river. Along the way, we would encounter other community members, all facing the same struggle. At the water source, we would have to wait in long lines, sometimes for hours, just to fill our containers. The water we collected was muddy and unfit for drinking without purification, but we had no choice but to use it for cooking, cleaning, and drinking," he continued.

Collecting water is now more convenient and less burdensome for him and the other community members in Yumbani.

Since the Sand Dam Installation

"Since the completion of the sand dam project, our lives have changed drastically. We now have access to clean and reliable water right in our community. No longer do we have to embark on long and grueling journeys or worry about the quality of the water we use. The completion of the project has brought immense relief and hope for a better future for our community," said Josephat.

Having ready access to water from the sand dam has made a difference for Josephat, allowing him to finally fulfill his dream of becoming a farmer.

Josephat collecting water from the well attached to the sand dam.

"Living with clean water is truly a blessing. The best thing about it is the sense of security and peace of mind it brings. I don't have to worry about falling ill from contaminated water or spending precious time and resources searching for safe sources. I just walk for 10 minutes, and I get my water. It's very fast and efficient. I can make many trips and yet go home and do other activities," Josephat said.

"I have managed to plant trees, tomatoes, kale, spinach, and maize. The project has boosted me so much because before the project, I wanted to do farming, although the lack of water made this impossible dream. I am dreaming of becoming the best farmer in my area, providing local markets with vegetables for sale," he concluded.