In the arid stretches of Marsabit County, where water scarcity has ever defined daily life, the community of Manyatta Jillo has revised its story through the power of unity and the principles of Transformational Community Development (TCD).

For years, women walked miles each day to fetch contaminated water from an unprotected water pan, which was also seasonal, but when the village embraced TCD, hope began to flow—literally. Through community-led meetings, they identified their own problems, with access to clean water being their top priority. They then mobilized local resources, labor, and leadership, partnering with the local government and other organizations like GHNI to construct a sustainable borehole and solar-powered pump.

The impact will be profound. Today, over 500 households are anticipating access to clean, safe water just steps from their homes. School attendance will increase, as children no longer spend hours fetching water. Health will be improved, and families will have time to engage in other income-generating activities, such as kitchen gardening and poultry keeping—initiatives also inspired by TCD.

This project stands as a powerful example of how lasting change begins when a community takes charge of its future. Their dream is to make what was once a daily struggle become a springboard for renewed dignity, health, and hope.

Thank you!

Written by Habiba, GHNI National Field Leader