Betty had two options: collect unsafe water from an unreliable well, or trek two and a half kilometers to get water from a crowded borehole in town. Neither one was ideal. Not only was the unreliable well dirty, it also dried up in the hot months. And getting water from the borehole in town stole hours of her day – time she needed for work and caring for her five young kiddos.
Without a reliable clean water source in her community, Betty’s family was plagued with waterborne illnesses such as skin rashes, typhoid fever, stomach pain, and respiratory issues. Meanwhile, the trip to town took women through rough terrain where they risked getting attacked by men or bitten by snakes. Plus, the longer trip did not allow Betty to carry enough water for her family – she spent hours hauling a single 40-pound jerry can when her family of seven needed so much more.
In fact, fetching water was such a problem for the community that it was named Woro Ko Wiwinya – “walking while complaining,” or “always complaining” in Kuku. Their struggle for water became their identity. Without clean water, they felt trapped and unable to live flourishing lives.
That’s why 4africa strives to help people like Betty and her family. We believe that God sees them and loves them deeply – no community is too remote for God to reach. After all, they are part of his beautiful creation. Our desire is to partner with them and empower communities like Betty’s to thrive, not just survive. As Jesus shared in the gospel of John:
“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10b (NIV)
Claiming a New Identity
As soon as our team met with the community of Woro Ko Wiwinya, we knew they needed access to clean water – fast! Betty’s community and the 4africa family joined together to make it happen. During the drilling process, we were able to get to know the community members. We prayed, gathered for meals, and read God’s Word together. It was a special time for everyone involved. To be honest, we were a bit sad when the project was complete, but we know we’ll see our friends again soon! And now, Betty’s family, along with the rest of her community, are enjoying flowing, clean water right outside their homes.
We were filled with joy when Betty told us, “With the availability of clean water, not only have our lives changed but our name as well. Woro Ko Wiwinya (walking while complaining) no longer defines who we are as a community. A close and clean well means good health for me and my family. I have more time to do other important work, and we’re able to save the money that we would otherwise spend on treating our children from recurring illnesses caused by dirty water.”
What a beautiful story of redemption and God’s grace: through Jesus, God removes the old and gives us a brand-new identity. The heavy burden of sin is removed, and we are no longer defined by our pasts. The new well provided an opportunity to share this incredible part of the gospel with Betty’s community. Along with their new identity, they have new hope! Hallelujah!
You will be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will bestow. Isaiah 62:2b (NIV)
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
Clean Water for People, Not Projects
As a long-time believer herself, Betty easily related her own testimony of faith and redemption in Christ with her community’s story. She’s thankful for God’s constant demonstration of love in her life.
This story exemplifies our mission – we are for people, not projects. Every project stems from a desire to care for the needs of others. Wherever God leads, we strive to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help families like Betty’s.
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