Families: 110
Water Committee: 4 men and 6 women

In Dayero, fetching water could take up most of a woman’s morning before the day’s other responsibilities had even begun. During the dry season, women woke at 3 a.m. and sometimes did not return until 9 a.m., often carrying only four buckets. In the rainy season, travelling down the hill to the Chimvu River became dangerous, while unsafe water exposed families to illness.

diarrhea and bilharzia were among the health concerns residents faced. With limited water available, keeping children clean and maintaining personal hygiene were difficult. Long waits at the river also created tension between people, and residents recall frequent arguments over access to water.

The new well has changed how families spend their time. Residents can now collect the water they need nearby and bathe three times a day. Women no longer have to sacrifice hours of sleep and household time to secure a few buckets, leaving more room for preparing meals, caring for children and managing daily responsibilities.

Children’s school attendance has seen a reported improvement as well. Before the well, only about 20% of children attended regularly, and many arrived late. Residents now report attendance at 100%, with children arriving clean and on time. Access to water has made it easier for families to prepare their children for the school day.

The community is also looking ahead to practical opportunities at home. Residents plan to mold bricks using water from the river and hope to make better use of the time they once spent searching for water.

For years, people in Dayero heard promises that clean water would come, but those promises went unfulfilled. When the well finally arrived, residents said, “We can’t believe it is here. We are dreaming.” After such a long wait, the well has brought more than a nearby water source. Residents describe greater peace in the community and a renewed ability to focus on their families and their future.