Families: 40 households across 3 villages
Water Committee: 5 men and 5 women

In Kagona, the day could begin at 2:00 a.m. For years, residents woke before sunrise to collect water from the Maasa River, often after gathering just one bucket of drinking water from Msanza School. The early start was necessary to meet household needs, but it left families with less time to rest and prepare for the day ahead.

The water was also unsafe. Residents reported diarrhoea and cholera, and families travelled to Chitala Hospital two to three times a month. The round trip took about three hours, adding another burden for a community largely dependent on farming.

The new 40-metre well is Kagona’s first community well beyond the one at the school. Families no longer have to depend on the same early-morning trips to the river for their water. Although residents still hope to see waterborne illnesses eliminated, having a closer source gives them a better opportunity to protect their health.

Children’s school routines have also been affected by the change. Before the well, many arrived late and wore dirty clothes because water was difficult to obtain. At Msaza Primary School, reported attendance had been only 40% for girls and 30% for boys. Families hope easier access to water will help more students attend regularly.

Residents are also looking at ways to improve their livelihoods. Backyard gardens are being established, and community members hope to earn additional income by baking and selling doughnuts or growing and selling tomatoes. Some are planning to plant more trees to help protect the environment.

For Elestina, the well has also opened the door to community leadership. She is serving on the water committee for the first time and feels happy and honoured to have been elected. Together, five women and five men will help maintain the well for the three villages it serves.