Before the borehole, women and children in this part of Kisii walked long distances to reach a water source that was often unreliable and unsafe. Waterborne illnesses were common, and the daily journey for water consumed hours that could have been spent in school or at work.
“Water used to be the first problem of every day. Now it is one less thing to worry about.”
Starting with a conversation
The project did not begin with construction. It began with listening. Mercy of Hope volunteers spent time with community leaders, women’s groups, and local health workers to understand the real scope of the problem. Where should the borehole be placed? Who would maintain it? How would the community govern access fairly? These questions shaped every decision.
A water point the community owns
The borehole now provides hundreds of residents with immediate access to safe, clean drinking water. A local water committee was established to manage and maintain the water point long-term, ensuring sustainability beyond the initial installation. The reduction in waterborne illness has been significant, and children — especially girls — have more time for school.
