Published in April 2026

We spoke to Jackson Mutinda and Ndunge Maria from Kithumba self-help group (SHG), located in Makueni County, Kenya, about how their sand dam project has supported their families, improved their farming, land and overall health. 

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Ndunge: My name is Ndunge Maria, I am 64-years-old, and I have four children. I have been a member of the Kithumba SHG since 2022. I make a living through farming.

Jackson: I am Jackson Mutinda, I am 76-years-old, and I have five children and four grandchildren who depend on me. I work as a farmer, and I also joined Kithumba SHG in 2022.

Why did you join Kithumba SHG?

Jackson: I wanted to be a part of something that could truly help our community. Water scarcity has been a constant struggle for us, and I realised that the dam would not only provide us with a reliable source of water but also improve the quality of life for everyone here.

Ndunge: The community has long suffered in getting clean water for household uses. The stress of water scarcity pushed us to mobilise ourselves and look for solutions to our water problems.

What was it like sourcing water before the sand dam?

Ndunge: On a typical day I woke up at 5am and rushed to the river carefully, because the terrain is harsh and it is often still dark at this time. The one community scoop hole would gather so many of us that queuing up would result in some of our daily activities being unattended to. I took around three hours to fetch water because of the location of the scoop holes and because of the congestion at the water source.

Jackson: Before I started working on the sand dam project, getting water was a daily struggle, especially during the dry season. We had to walk long distances just to find water, which took a lot of time and energy away from farming and other important tasks. I would be at the water source as early as 3am.

As farmers, can you outline some of the struggles of not having enough water for your crops?

"I couldn’t grow enough crops to provide food for my family. The unreliable rains make it hard for anyone in this community to have a productive farm. My farm was not very productive."

Ndunge Maria, member of the Kithumba self-help group, southeast Kenya.

Jackson: The land was dry and unproductive, and it felt like we were always battling against the environment. The lack of water made growing produce incredibly difficult, which in turn affected our ability to cook nourishing meals. We had to be resourceful, relying on fewer fresh ingredients and learning to use what little we had. It became a constant challenge to feed ourselves and our families. Simple things like watering plants or cleaning food became a daily struggle, and it forced us to rethink how we approached cooking and food preparation entirely.

Were there any impacts on your health, having to get water from an unprotected source?

Ndunge: Sicknesses was the norm before we installed this project.

Jackson: After drinking the contaminated water, I experienced severe stomach cramps and nausea within hours. It lasted for about a week, and I felt completely drained during that time. A close friend of mine also got sick, but their symptoms were more prolonged, lasting nearly two weeks. Fortunately, we both recovered, but ever since, I’ve noticed I’ve become more sensitive to even minor stomach issues. It feels like my digestive system hasn’t fully returned to normal.

How did Sand Dams Worldwide (SDW) and our partner in southeast Kenya, Africa Sand Dam Foundation (ASDF) assist your community?

Jackson: SDW and ASDF have supported us in the construction of a sand dam and a shallow well. We have received a lot of trainings which have been very helpful to us so much. We also got the chance to work with an expedition (volunteer) team during construction. 

Ndunge: One such training topic covered was water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). It was so impactful, and I wish I had got it before the outbreak of COVID-19. I learnt how to make soap and use it to wash utensils. We also received training on farming practices.

How has your farming changed since the sand dam project? 

"Since receiving farming training, my perspective on food, nature, and hard work has shifted. I used to view food as just something on a plate, but now I see the connection between what we eat and the land. I feel great nurturing crops from seed to harvest, and it’s given me a new appreciation for being patient with my farming. I have started a small farm whereby I have planted kale but hopefully planning to do more vegetables and plant citrus fruits. I am hoping to be making 10,000 Kenyan shillings (around £60) per month in the future."

Jackson Mutinda, member of the Kithumba self-help group, southeast Kenya. 

Ndunge: I have started a small farm whereby I have planted kale, bananas and tomatoes. I enjoy fetching water from our new water point which is safe and closer to me. I am hoping to make around 15,000 Kenyan shillings (around £88) per month in the future.

Has your health improved?

Ndunge: I am no longer getting sick from drinking unsafe water. I always get water from the shallow well. The larger community uses the shallow well too, so the waterborne diseases have gone away for them as well.

Jackson: Before, we had to rely on distant, often unclean water sources, which led to frequent illnesses like diarrhoea and other water-related illnesses. Now, with clean water readily available, we've noticed fewer health issues, and everyone seems to have more energy. The whole community feels the difference.

Do you have any final words about your participation in the sand dam project?

Jackson: When I reflect on our sand dam and all that we've accomplished as a community, I feel proud and thankful. It’s incredible to see how our collective efforts have changed our land and improved the lives of so many. 

Ndunge: This project is my heart, I love it, and I absolutely love sand dams.

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Please donate what you can and help to empower vulnerable women and girls in drylands to transform their own lives with sand dams and clean water