Etaro Water Project

Water is life, but we do not all have the same access to it. It is easy to take for granted when we can simply turn on a faucet and safe water is accessible everywhere we go. The same is not true in the Mara region. Fetching water is part of a daily routine and is so necessary that it is a priority over everything else, including education. This responsibility often falls on children, especially girls.

Although our mission doesn't revolve around water specifically, we know it is part of improving access to education. That's why we have supported water projects at schools over the years. Providing water infrastructure at schools eliminates the need for students to fetch it and lose precious time in classrooms or studying.

This Spring, we partnered with Strides for Africa (a nonprofit based in Madison, Wi) on one of our most ambitious water projects yet. In the past we have funded the construction of storage tanks that harvest rain water. The Etaro Secondary School water project included the construction of a water main extension that connects the school to a pumphouse drawing water directly from Lake Victoria, providing a year-round supply that won't run out during the dry season.

As much as we love telling these stories, it is more fun to hear it directly from our partners that are doing that hard work. Below are excerpts from the staff report submitted to TDS by our 4H Career Pathways Coordinator, John Kuboja.

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We are pleased to share the successful completion of the Water Connection Project from the Musoma Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Authority (MUWASA) Main Line Distribution to Etaro Secondary School, implemented between January and March 2026. For many years, access to reliable water at the school was a daily struggle. Students often walked long distances carrying containers before classes could begin. Valuable learning time was lost, fatigue affected concentration, and some students missed lessons entirely. For girls, the challenge was even more difficult during menstrual periods due to lack of

clean and accessible water.

Today, this reality has changed. Reliable tap water is now available within the school compound and extended to the 4H learning garden, significantly improving learning conditions while strengthening practical STEM education and career exploration opportunities.

January – Planning and Community Engagement Phase

The project began with a comprehensive planning process including securing approvals

from the Musoma Rural District Council, informing ward and village leaders, conducting

community engagement meetings in Etaro Village, and procuring construction materials.

These steps built strong community ownership and confidence in the project.

February – Infrastructure Development Phase

Implementation began with excavation of more than 1,800 meters of trenches for laying 1½ inch main distribution pipes, and an additional 225 meters for the water connection extended directly to the 4H school garden to support irrigation and practical STEM learning activities. Students actively participated in supervised excavation and measurement activities, gaining exposure to real-world infrastructure processes.

Anna, a form three student shared:

“Before this project, we spent so much time fetching water and missing classes. Now, I am proud to have helped build something that will benefit all of us, and I am very thankful to the donors who made this possible.”

March – Pipe Installation and Project Completion

Activities undertaken jointly by Musoma Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Authority

(MUWASA) technicians and students included laying of pipes into trenches, pipe fitting

and connection works for both the main distribution and garden line, backfilling of

trenches, as well as testing and commissioning of the system. The project was successfully completed, resulting in functional tap water access that has transformed daily school operations.

Support for Girls’ Education and Teacher Well-Being

"Access to clean water supports menstrual hygiene management for girls and women teachers, increasing confidence, attendance, and participation in school life.As a teacher, I see every day how access to clean water empowers our girls and supports our well-being. Your generous support makes a real difference helping our students thrive, attend school with confidence, and fully participate in learning. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for investing in education and in us." - Jesca Panduka, a teacher at Etaro Secondary School.

Community Ownership and Sustainability

Strong involvement of community leaders, students, and teachers has created a shared

sense of responsibility that will support long-term maintenance and sustainability of the

water infrastructure. Your generosity has sparked a shared commitment in our

community.

"We are deeply grateful to our donors for their generosity, which has inspired a shared commitment in our community. Together, with leaders, villagers, teachers, and students, we will maintain and protect our water infrastructure, ensuring a brighter and sustainable future for all." - Etaro Ward Councillor, Mashauri Kilawa

"We are grateful for your generous support. Our school will ensure the infrastructure is maintained, monthly bills are covered, and its benefits are sustained for all students and staff." - Etaro Headmaster, Mr. Jacob