Handing over the well at Mulwanda.

The first of our current water projects was handed over to the community last Saturday afternoon. The people had prepared everything outside but heavy rain (hail) started shortly after our arrival. We have had rainstorms for a few days, which is most unusual as this is supposed to be the dry season. The stream where Mulwanda takes its water is heavily polluted in the rains by pit latrines and other run off coming down the valley from new housing construction.
I am copying the letter they wrote and read out at our meeting.
COMMISSIONING OF COMMUNITY BOREHOLE

I welcome all of you to this important function in this community.
We residents of Mulwanda have for a very long time been suffering diseases because of drinking contaminated water from the natural springs you have just seen.
We have sent requests to many leaders in this area but have received no support in the past. We are grateful that our elected councillor for the ward was able to link us to Mrs. Patricia and Mr. Rod Crossley. Introduction of this couple to our community has resulted in where we are here to witness today.
I wish to express my sincere appreciation to our councillor and to the Crossleys for their support of this community.
All of us are aware that the water is life. Today's function is a special one because our families will start to drink healthy water.
This is God's gift to the people of Mulwanda.
We shall care for this borehole. We shall protect it jealously because this is a rare case where our visitors have committed their resources to care for us and our future generations.
In order to maintain this water facility it is necessary that we pay a small fee of KSh 50/- per month per household. my committee will review each household and will determine the needy cases who may be allowed free water....
We shall continue to remember you in our prayers.
thank you
Agnes Atamba Ichela
Chairlady, Mulwanda welfare self help group. 6th Feb.. 2010.

This project is an excellent example of cooperation at all levels. The funding was provided by the Rotary Club of San Bernadino, California. This club has faithfully provided a well each year for the past few years. The community fed and housed the diggers as their contribution and our contractor, Nixon Ifeda, did his usual excellent job. A local family agreed to give up a portion of their land in perpetuity so that the community may always have access to the water.