Joy in isolated community as families get access to safe water supply.
Pilot Daniel, flying for MAF, transported a team from Water Matters Sweden to the remote village of Thuur in northern Kenya. Their mission was to distribute water filters to local communities and schools, ensuring clean drinking water.
MAF's longstanding presence and compassionate outreach to the community have forged a strong bond of trust.
Meshack Gayere, a health officer and a resident of Marsabit, receiving the team on ground, commended MAF and the team for their great efforts to ensure safe water is available.
He said, “Water filters are a lifeline for our community, ensuring clean, safe drinking water for our families.
“We are so grateful for the donations that bring us hope and health in uncertain times. These water filters are not just tools, they are agents of change, providing better health and well-being in marginalized communities.''
Access to clean and safe drinking water in northeastern Kenya varies depending on the specific location within the region, but generally they face challenges related to water scarcity and inadequate infrastructure for water supply and sanitation.
Communities rely on limited water sources such as shallow wells, water pans, boreholes, and often unreliable rainfall for their water needs. These sources may not always provide water that meets safety standards for human consumption due to contamination, leading to risks of waterborne diseases such as cholera. Locals have experienced outbreaks a couple of times due to poor hygiene and scarcity of clean water.
Conflicts over water sources are also a factor and can worsen the situation in areas where water is already scarce. Climate change further compounds these challenges impacting rainfall patterns and intensifying drought conditions.
Upon visiting Thuur, the faces of the villagers lit up with joy as they witnessed demonstrations of how to use the water filters. The murky, contaminated water from the pan transformed into crystal clear liquid, safe for drinking. Overwhelmed with gratitude, they described the team as angels sent from heaven to bring them aid.
Marcus from Water Matters Sweden said, “We love partnering with MAF because MAF flies to many remote locations across the country where these water filters are needed. By working together, these water filters will help many people get access to clean and safe drinking water.
“MAF's longstanding presence and compassionate outreach to the community have forged a strong bond of trust. This trust has paved the way for Water Matters, in collaboration with residents, to provide clean water access to 17 villages, benefitting approximately 2000 people.
“We will continue working with MAF to ensure more water filters reach the locations with dire need.”