Dedication: Brian and Joelle Kelly Family Foundation in honor of Summer L. Foster

Installation Date: April 12, 2024

Location:
School: Milimbo Primary School
District: Mangochi
Country: Malawi

GPS Location:  See bottom of page.

Stories / Quotes:

Students: 2, 324 learners

Challenges Before the Water Well

  • Long Distance to Water:
    Before this water well, the students had to travel one kilometer to fetch water from the village’s only water source. They would often have to wait their turn, leading to missed classes as they were unable to get back in time.
  • Sanitation Issues:
    The school faced major sanitation challenges. The students could not clean the classrooms properly, and even the toilets were unhygienic, risking the health of both the teachers and students.
  • Cholera Outbreaks:
    The community suffered from cholera outbreaks, with about 30 people affected, including some students last year. Thankfully, there were no fatalities, but the situation highlighted the urgent need for clean water.
  • Meal Preparation Difficulties:
    The school’s feeding program also struggled, as there was insufficient water for cooking, cleaning, and washing dishes. This delayed meal preparation for the students.
  • Menstrual Health Challenges:
    Girls in the school who had reached puberty faced difficulties during menstruation due to the lack of water. Many would excuse themselves from school and not return until their menstrual period was over.

Impact of the New Water Well

  • Improved Access to Water:
    The new well has transformed life for the students, who can now access clean water at the school itself without missing classes.
  • Better Sanitation:
    With water readily available, the school can now maintain cleaner classrooms and toilets, ensuring better health and safety for all.
  • Healthier Students:
    The new water source has helped prevent the spread of cholera and other waterborne diseases, keeping the students safe and healthy.
  • Faster Meal Preparation:
    The feeding program can now run smoothly, with sufficient water for cooking, cleaning, and hygiene.
  • Empowered Girls:
    Girls no longer have to miss school during their menstrual cycle, as they now have access to clean water to manage their menstrual health.
  • Community Benefit:
    In addition to the school, 50 households in the village are also benefiting from this well, improving the lives of many families.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks once again to the Brian and Joelle Kelly Family Foundation for this generous gift. Your support has made a lasting difference for these children, their families, and the entire Milimbo community.

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