For years, the people of Kereria struggled with severe water shortages. Their primary source, River Thanantu, dried up during the dry season, leaving over 1,000 residents, including 128 schoolchildren, without reliable access to water. When available, the river’s water was often contaminated, causing widespread waterborne illnesses like diarrhea and stomachaches. This crisis impacted not only health and hygiene but also education, as students were frequently absent due to illness or time spent fetching water.

Determined to find a lasting solution, the community, led by CorpsAfrica/Kenya Volunteer Gladys Mutemi, partnered with CorpsAfrica/Kenya and Davis & Shirtliff to secure clean, sustainable water access. The initiative focused on rehabilitating an existing borehole by replacing the broken hand pump with a modern solar-powered pump system. Water was piped directly to the local school, a reinforced slab was constructed, and a 10,000-liter storage tank was installed to ensure a continuous supply.

Today, thanks to this initiative, the school and surrounding households have reliable access to clean water, transforming daily life in Kereria. Students can now concentrate on their education without the burden of long water-fetching journeys or falling ill from contaminated water. Hygiene and sanitation have drastically improved, reducing cases of waterborne diseases.

To ensure sustainability, the community implemented a water management plan. Water is sold at an affordable rate at a designated collection point, generating funds for maintenance and future repairs. Davis & Shirtliff played a crucial role in this transformation by donating a solar pump system and installation valued at USD 2,383.15. Their generosity, coupled with the dedication of the community and CorpsAfrica/Kenya, has made clean water a reality for 126 households, 128 pupils, and 15 teachers.

The impact of this project extends beyond health. With improved water access, students are thriving in their studies, and the community’s overall well-being has significantly improved. This World Water Day, we celebrate the power of community-led solutions in securing one of life’s most essential resources, clean water for all.