hat an unforgettable experience! On Sunday, May 28 our U.S. and Kenya team joined hands with the Kajiado Town community as the drilling rig started up and began the final drill for water. At 290 meters the deep aquifer was hit and water flowed from the ground as the community celebrated. CEO, Kait TenHarmsel shares:
For three consecutive days, our team watched as the drill methodically made its way down to the aquifer. Every 15 feet the drilling paused and a new rod was added to continue the effort. Despite my thirteen years of involvement with The Humanity Share, I had never before been on-site for the drilling process. Walking past the drill, I experienced an overwhelming sense of peace—a confidence that water was indeed present. Yet, there were moments when doubt crept in. What if, once again, there was no water? What will we tell the community and our donors?
On Sunday morning, as I was in an interview with our university scholarship recipients, a video arrived via text—water was bursting from the ground. It was a moment of disbelief, joy, and gratitude. Without a second thought, I gathered my team, and together we raced across town (on foot) to the church, eager to witness it firsthand. Overnight, the borehole had replenished itself, and water now flowed abundantly!
At a depth of 250 meters, the drilling paused for the church service. As we filtered into the church I saw Rebecca, a community member whose story had been shared throughout our fundraising efforts for the borehole. We waved at each other and waited for the service to conclude before connecting. As soon as it ended, the entire community congregated around the borehole, eager to witness the final drilling for water. I held Rebecca's hand, and together we watched as her community's future unfolded before our eyes.
The arrival of water signifies more than just its physical presence; it signifies hope, resilience, and the unlocked opportunity. We are grateful for the unwavering support of our donors and the unyielding spirit of the community.
In Rebecca's community, the closest water point is 7 kilometers away.The cost of water at this point is exorbitant, rendering it unaffordable for most residents. Moreover, the existing water point has been non-operational for several months, exacerbating the risks faced by the community. The Kajiado Water Project is just outside the confines of an informal settlement where 13,000 individuals reside. This initiative will provide accessible and affordable water to the community, creating a sustainable solution to the pressing water crisis.
By ensuring water affordability, the project seeks to empower individuals and families, enabling them to meet their basic needs without sacrificing their financial stability. The revenue generated from water sales will play a vital role in maintaining and expanding the water source, ensuring long-term water security for the entire community.
