In the heart of Malawi’s Salima District lies Chinyama Village, a close-knit community of around 40 households neighboring the villages of Chakumbutsa and N’goma.
For years, Chinyama carried the heavy burden of water insecurity – forced to rely on the polluted Nsongondeleya River for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. The community’s only source of water was more than unsafe – it was a daily battleground.
The long wait times at the river often led to arguments, especially among women, who spent hours queuing in hopes of collecting enough water before the sun grew too hot. With no clean alternative, families faced regular outbreaks of disease. In 2003, the village endured a devastating cholera outbreak that claimed five lives – a painful memory that underscored just how dangerous unclean water could be.
Children were not spared from the effects either. Early morning water collection meant many missed school or arrived late, compromising their education and dimming their future prospects.
“We had been lied to by the politicians, saying, ‘We’ll bring you a water well.’ It was just stories,” one villager shared with disappointment.
That all changed in September 2024
Thanks to the efforts of Water Wells for Africa (WWFA), Chinyama Village received a deep-water borehole, installed right in the heart of the community. The transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.
Health Improvements: Incidents of cholera, diarrhea, and other waterborne illnesses have drastically declined. Families now drink and cook without fear, and the general health of the village has improved.
Restored Peace: The conflict at the river has ended. Women no longer fight over water access. Instead, they spend their morning productively – farming, parenting, or engaging in small business ventures.
Boosted Education: Children now have time to focus on school. With water close by, they arrive on time and are able to fully participate in class.
Community Empowerment: One of our requirements at WWFA is that a local committee be formed to manage the well’s use and upkeep.This instills ownership and accountability among residents.
The amazing impact of clean water is visible in every corner of Chinyama. For some, like Martha Anderson, it’s meant a new lease on life.
Martha’s New Beginning
Martha Anderson, a mother living in the village, used to begin every day at dawn — walking long distances to collect water from the dirty river. Her children’s education suffered, and her energy was drained before noon. Life felt like a cycle of survival.
That changed after the well installation. With water now within reach, Martha turned her attention to her backyard. She started growing green corn (Dowe) and launched a small business selling it.
“I never thought I could run a business,” she says with pride. “Now I’m earning a little money each day. I can buy food, pay for school supplies, and even save a little.”
Martha is now seen as an inspiration by other women, who are also exploring small-scale businesses – empowered by the time and energy clean water has returned to them.
Chief Christina’s Agricultural Revival
Chief Christina George has led the village through its transformation with vision and determination. Once limited by the lack of water, Chinyama’s farmers – under her leadership – are now cultivating tomatoes, maize, and vegetables. Increased yields have allowed families to sell surplus crops at the market and reinvest in their homes.
“Our households are changing,” says Chief Christina. “We can buy essentials like soap, sugar, books for our children, and even meat sometimes. The children are learning, the homes are cleaner, and our dignity has been restored.”
Chief Christina is also championing community farming and promoting education for both girls and boys, recognizing that clean water is not just a resource – it’s a catalyst for progress.
Check out our Sustainability Success page to see how many wells we’ve installed and how many people’s lives have been transformed!
