Water is life: How sand dams have emancipated Ukambani

Local people digs shallow wells on sand dams to access water for use in agricultural activities. [NANJINIA WAMUSWA, STANDARD]

In many parts of Ukambani region, water scarcity has led to untold sufferings for many residents, some who are forced to spend inordinate time wandering in the fields in search of the precious commodity.

It is not strange in Machakos, Makueni and Kitui counties to come across groups of women wandering in the wilderness looking for water. This cycle of water scarcity traps women in poverty, preventing them from pursuing opportunities beyond water collection.