Families: 300 households across 3 villages
Water Committee: 7 women and 3 men

For generations, families in Kamwana relied on a shallow well in the dambo area for water. Households could collect only about two buckets a day, making it difficult to meet their daily needs. The community had never had a water well of its own, and families faced ongoing challenges accessing safe water.

Unsafe water brought serious health concerns, including cholera, bilharzia, and eye problems. Families visited the clinic between three and ten times a month. Although the nearest clinic was only about 10 minutes away, residents said they were sometimes turned away because their families visited so frequently. They were then forced to travel to Liwonde, where transportation could cost as much as K250,000.

The new 50-meter well, installed on December 2, 2025, has brought a remarkable change. Community members report that cholera and other waterborne illnesses are no longer affecting them. With clean water available close to home, families can focus more on their health and daily responsibilities without the same concerns about unsafe water.

The benefits are reaching beyond health. Families now have more time to spend together, prepare meals on time, and care for their children. With farming as their main livelihood, residents are growing corn and working toward building better homes. Families also report greater peace for women and improvements in their living conditions.

Education has seen a particularly encouraging change. Before the well, only 50% of children were attending school. Attendance has reportedly reached 100% at Kawiriwita Primary School. Parents can now prepare meals for their children on time, helping them arrive at school ready to learn.

The changes have also created new opportunities for girls. Community members shared that some girls who were married at an early age have ended their marriages and returned to school. Residents also reported a reduction in early girl pregnancies and domestic violence, offering hope for greater safety and opportunity for women and girls.

The water committee includes seven women and three men. The women are happy to accept the responsibility of helping manage the well and are eagerly looking forward to Community-Based Management training. Their involvement will be important in maintaining reliable access to clean water for the three villages.

For Kamwana, this first water well has brought more than a dependable water source. Families report better health, children are back in school, and women and girls have greater opportunities to pursue a safer and more hopeful future.