Drops of Change

The Drops of Change project was implemented in 2022 in response to a long-standing and critical water access challenge affecting Mkenge Primary School and its surrounding community. Prior to the project, more than 600 students, 11 teachers, and nearby households relied on unreliable and unsafe water sources. The government tap system meant to supply clean water to the school was frequently disrupted due to water line damage caused by pastoralist activities, leaving the school without consistent access to drinking water for extended periods. This forced students and community members to rely on an unsafe pond, exposing them to high risks of waterborne diseases and negatively impacting school attendance, health, and hygiene.
Recognizing the severity of this issue, GERF, with funding support from Step mark & Kemmon Limited Company, implemented the Drops of Change project to provide sustainable and reliable clean water access. The project installed three high-capacity water storage tanks (5,000L–10,000L) at the school and Village Executive Office, establishing a dependable water reserve even during dry seasons or tap disruptions.
The project significantly improved student wellbeing, reduced health risks, strengthened hygiene practices, and enhanced resilience during water shortages. In addition to infrastructure, the project delivered hygiene and safe water handling training to students, teachers, and community households, building long-term behavioral change and capacity. The initiative demonstrated GERF’s commitment to strengthening WASH access, empowering communities, and building sustainable solutions for rural water challenges.