This encouraging story illustrates how improved water access changes lives in rural Kenya.
Nyumbani Village, is a sustainable HIV/AIDS community in Kenya which was established in 2006 on 1,000 acres in a semi-arid region near the equator, where weeks (and often months) can pass without a drop of rain. The village houses 1,000 orphaned children and 100 grandparents who lost adult children to AIDS.
It was discovered that the water beneath Nyumbani Village is saline and not suitable for drinking and therefore the boreholes and shallow wells could not provide clean drinking water.
With support from their sponsors the community started a rainwater harvesting project, because providing easy access to clean water (and therefore sanitation and hygiene) is a major driver towards a life of health and well-being.
Prior to living in Nyumbani Village, many children and elderly walked several kilometers per day to source freshwater for their families. Now in Nyumbani Village, with freshwater access at every home through rainwater tanks, it increases time for other activities, such as studying, farming, and playing sports.
“I am less tired these days, because I do not have to fetch water. I now invest my time in others things, like working a lot in my garden.” – Local woman in Nyumbani Village.
Before Nyumbani Village, life for the nearby children who lost parents to AIDS was bleak. For those infected and affected by HIV, access to water means staying safe and in school, and may play a major role in curbing the spread of HIV. By providing access to water, sanitation, hygiene, and much more, Nyumbani Village is helping them to stay healthy, and live the empowered lives they deserve.