Life for Relief and Development (LIFE) Brings Clean Water to More Than 700 People in Kenya in 2026
The Kenyan Water Crisis
For families living in Gumarey Village in Garissa County, access to clean water had become a daily challenge. The community had no reliable local water source, and its existing well had broken down.
Without a functioning well, residents were forced to travel long distances to collect water from a river. The water was unsafe, increasing exposure to waterborne diseases, while the journey placed a particular burden on women and children. Limited water access also affected household hygiene, livestock and everyday needs.
A sustainable source of clean water was urgently needed.
Bringing Clean Water to More Than 700 People
From April 1 to April 13, 2026, Life for Relief and Development (LIFE) implemented a new water well with a hand pump in Gumarey Village, Garissa County, Kenya.
The project directly benefited 73 households, representing more than 700 people, providing the community with a reliable source of clean and safe water.
The project was implemented directly by LIFE’s Kenya office with assistance from local volunteers.
The Impact
Having clean water closer to home has changed daily life for families throughout Gumarey Village.
Instead of travelling long distances to collect unsafe river water, households now have access to a reliable source of clean water for drinking and domestic use.
The project has helped reduce the time and physical effort required to collect water, particularly for women and children. It has also supported better sanitation and hygiene, livestock, small-scale farming and greater resilience during periods of drought.
Beyond the 73 households directly reached, the water source is estimated to benefit an additional 300 to 500 people from nearby households, extended families and surrounding communities who share access to the water point.
Community Engagement
Community leaders and government representatives were involved during planning and implementation, helping strengthen local ownership and the long-term management of the water source.
The site was assessed for safety, and the water point was strategically located to provide safe access, including for women and children. Community members were also engaged in protecting the facility and helping prevent misuse, vandalism and contamination.
Aden’s Story
For Aden Osman Waraab, the new water source has transformed a daily struggle his community had faced for years.
Before the project, families had to travel long distances to the river because clean water was unavailable nearby. Now, safe water is within reach.
Aden explained that the change has reduced the community’s daily burden, supported their livestock and improved access to safer water.
A Lasting Source of Water in 2026
The impact of a water well extends far beyond the water itself. Reliable access can support health, hygiene, livelihoods and the ability of families to spend their time on school, work and caring for their families.
Through this 2026 project, Life for Relief and Development (LIFE) provided more than 700 people across 73 households in Gumarey Village with direct access to clean and safe water, while hundreds more people in surrounding communities are expected to benefit.
LIFE extends its sincere appreciation to the donors and supporters who made this water project possible. Your generosity has helped bring clean water closer to families, reduce the daily burden of water collection and provide a resource the community can continue to rely on. Thank you for helping make this lasting change possible.
