Families: 41
Water Committee: 4 men and 6 women

For generations, Nanzikambe Village had no access to clean water. Villagers relied on the river, which was a two-hour walk away, and during the dry season they dug for water, often standing in long lines for hours. Illnesses like cholera were a constant, and many believed being sick was simply part of daily life. Conflicts were common—women fought at the water points, families quarreled at home, and buckets were frequently broken.

The story of Nanzikambe’s first borehole is one of perseverance and determination. WWFA Malawi’s team had two unsuccessful attempts before striking water on the third try. Villagers built a two-kilometer road over a month so the drilling team could access the site, despite others laughing and saying it would be impossible. Mvundu Makiyi, age 70 and one of the primary road builders, reflected, “We have never dreamt this would happen.”

With the well now providing abundant water, life in the village has been transformed. Women were elected to the water committee for the first time and, through Community-Based Management training, feel confident in maintaining the borehole. The community now enjoys peace at home, harmony among women, and the freedom to collect as much water as they need. Villagers celebrated with a joyful “baptism” party, singing, “We are so happy we can waste water.”

The people of Nanzikambe are grateful for the tireless work of WWFA and team members like Paul, whose encouragement kept hope alive. “Words fail us. We really appreciate this young man. We pray God blesses him,” the villagers shared. This borehole has brought not just water, but health, hope, and a renewed sense of possibility to the village.