When clean water arrives in a community, it’s never just about a new well or a pump. It’s about people coming together, sharing hope, and building something lasting. This past February in Uganda’s Tororo District, that spirit was everywhere as The WASH Foundation joined local leaders, families, and students to celebrate handing over two new water wells at Asinge and Magodes Primary Schools.
Meet Reverend Joshua:
A Real Parade of Joy
At both community hand-over ceremonies you could feel the excitement. Parents, teachers, healthcare workers, clergy, and kids all gathered under tents and around the new wells. The majority of the school community members joined in the inauguration of their new water source, demonstrating how important the gift of clean water is to a Ugandan community. These truly were events of gratitude and joy.
The newly formed Water User Committee members were present and ready to take over the care and administration of their new wells. People of all ages listened closely, asked questions, and celebrated together. The excitement was contagious, and you could see how much pride the community took in this new chapter.
Taking Ownership and Looking Ahead
This celebration was more than just a ceremony. It marked the start of true community ownership. In the days before the event, The WASH Foundation and the Ugandan Water Project led hands-on training for Water User Committees at each school. These committees, made up of teachers, parents, and local residents, are now ready to keep the wells running and make sure the water keeps flowing for years to come.
Each well now serves as a center for health and learning, giving more than 500 students and their families access to clean water. Without the burden of time spent fetching water daily, kids spend more time in class, girls can attend school confidently, and families are protected from waterborne diseases that used to threaten their daily lives.
Hearing Directly From the Community
You really feel the impact when you listen to the people whose lives have changed. In the video linked here, you’ll meet Mica Oyapel, Headmaster of Magodes Primary School, and Namono Bridget, President of the Magodes School WASH Club. Their stories show how access to clean water brings improved health, and new opportunities for students and the whole community.
Video of Mica Oyapel, & Namono Bridget:
Looking Ahead
This update from Uganda is just one part of our journey. The WASH Foundation is committed to expanding access to safe water, improving sanitation, and bringing hygiene education to even more schools and healthcare facilities in Tororo. Next up: more fundraising for drilling, sanitation upgrades, and our primary educational programs: WASH-in-School, WASH-in-Healthcare Facilites, and Menstrual Hygiene Management Economic Empowerment program.
With every new well and every celebration, we’re getting closer to a world where improved health and opportunity are within reach for everyone.
Watch the video testimonials to see the joy and transformation for yourself and join us as we support the next chapter of clean water and brighter futures in Uganda and beyond.
Improving Health. Transforming Lives.
