Makueni, Kenya faces water scarcity challenges in the dry summer months, affecting both agriculture and household water supply.
In 2023, Mifuko Women Development Community-based Organisation (MWD CBO), our partner and a grassroots organization in Makueni, initiated a project to procure 41 essential water tanks for Mifuko Trust’s agroforestry ambassadors. Later 25 water tanks were procured for other beneficiaries who were selected from different groups, prioritizing individuals in the most vulnerable position. The water tanks were funded through contributions from private donors, and the beneficiaries, who contributed approximately 27% to 42% of the total price of the tank, demonstrating their commitment to the cause and a more sustainable future.
One of the beneficiaries is Eunice Mwongeli Kioko, one of Mifuko’s weaving artisans and a valued member of the Kyanguyu women group. At 37 years old, Eunice is a dedicated artisan, wife, and mother of seven (four boys and three girls). As a result of an accident in 2011, she lives with a physical disability. Eunice and her husband engage in small-scale farming as their main source of income. The income generated from basket weaving complements their livelihood.
During dry seasons, Eunice and her family previously bought water from vendors at 30 Kenyan shillings for a 20-liter jerry can. Eunice used income from basket weaving to purchase water or sometimes exchanged food for it. In October 2023, she received a 3000-liter water tank from Mifuko Trust for rainwater harvesting. This donation allows her family to collect a significant amount of rainwater and save the money that was previously spent on purchasing water. Eunice plans to use the harvested water for drinking and cooking. Additionally, she practices agroforestry by establishing small tree nurseries for various species, using some for personal use and selling the surplus seedlings.
These tanks secure clean water for households during dry periods and support green spaces by harnessing rainwater for irrigation.
