How Water Tanks Sparked Change and Revived Hope in Kilome Constituency.
In Kilome Constituency, Makueni County, a water tank project is reshaping lives. For years, the community battled acute water scarcity, with families trekking long distances to fetch often unsafe water. This harsh reality disrupted daily life of members of the community, and even compromised education, particularly in schools like Muua Primary.
“We lacked drinking water, and pupils had to walk long distances to fetch water from the river,” said Regina Mutungi, headteacher of Muua Primary School.
The result was frequent illnesses, interrupted learning, and an exhausting routine that left children drained before they could even focus on their studies.
This year marked a turning point. A transformative initiative led by NALSA Kenya, through Kilome Constituency Patricia Nzambia delivered 10,000-litre water tanks to schools, institutions and groups in the community across Kilome. The results have been profound, sparking immediate change in education, health, and livelihoods.
At Muua Primary School, the impact is unmistakable. “Our students now have clean water on demand,” Mutungi shared. “It has brought health, consistency, and focus to our learning environment.” Students no longer miss class to fetch water, meals are prepared without interruption, and hygiene standards have improved dramatically.
For students like Onesmus Mwenda, the change is life-altering. “I’m excited to have fresh water at school. It has ended our daily struggles with water scarcity,” he said.
The benefits extend beyond schools. At Kemuama Catholic Church, a water tank has relieved a daily challenge. “This tank has changed our lives,” said Samson Mbuvi. “We now have reliable access to water for our families and church activities. It’s more than a convenience, it’s a lifeline.”
Families are also reaping the rewards. Theresia Mthama, a resident, shared how the tanks have transformed her household. “I’ve planted spinach and tomatoes in my backyard. We enjoy fresh vegetables and sell the surplus at the market. It’s a blessing that has improved our food security and income.”
Community leaders echoed this sentiment. “This initiative has restored hope,” said Pricilla Wambua, a parent. “We can now focus on building a better future for our children.”
Speaking at the project launch, Patricia Nzambi Kithua, NALSA representative highlighted the significance of this initiative. “What we’re doing here will bring immense benefits to the people of Kilome. For schools where children once carried water to class, these tanks will save them from that burden. We are grateful to Proudly Kenyan and thankful to NALSA Kenya for making this possible.”
The First Lady has reassured the community that this is just the beginning. Plans for more sustainable solutions are underway, promising to build on this progress.
For Kilome, these water tanks mark the start of a new chapter where families thrive, schools flourish, and the community can look toward a brighter future.