Published in August 2025

In a recent interview, we heard the story of Simon Mbithi, whose decision to give back to his community led him to join the Iiani Village self-help group (SHG). He tells us how contributing towards the construction of a sand dam in his community is now improving his quality of life. 

Can you tell us your name and a bit about your background?

My name is Simon Mbithi. I am 60 years old, and I am a father to five. I work as a police officer while also being an active member of the Iiani Village SHG since 2021. We’re located in the Kango village in Makueni county, southeast Kenya.

Why did you join the sand dam project?

I wanted to give back to my community and help a little, just to see my community grow.

What was accessing water like before the sand dam project?

I would wake up at 7am to start my day. I would use a cart and my two cows to help me carry more water from the river point, which was very far and dangerous too. Sometimes we would be attacked by wild animals on the way there. Journeying to the river under the intense sun was such a difficult duty, but I felt that the expectations placed on me called for extra effort. Even after fetching water, I could still have a long day and give my last bit of energy to my farm, just to make ends meet for my family.

What was your farm like before the sand dam project?

Before the dam, my farm was not that good. I had little knowledge of modern farming methods or post-harvest management practices. I did not know the right type of manure to apply and what amount would be appropriate. I was also not able to dig good terraces, and I depended on inconsistent rains to water my crops.

What other impacts did the lack of water have on you and your family?

Water from the river was always very contaminated and could be dangerous to our health. We often had stomach problems and community members regularly dealt with diarrhoea. Another impact was on my children, who would be forced to stay at home while their peers attended school because I needed them to help me fetch water.

What is your farm like now? How has it changed since the sand dam project?

"Since I received farming training through the project, my life has transformed completely. I now have the skills to grow healthier crops, manage my land better, and even increase my income. It is not just about farming anymore; it’s about building a sustainable future for my family and community. Recently I have planted kale, beans, maize and bananas. I have made a profit of Ksh 15,000 (around £86) in the last month."

Simon Mbithi, member of the Iiani Village self-help group in southeast Kenya.

What have you achieved, both as a community and an individual, through the sand dam project?

Since building sand dams, life has transformed completely. We no longer have to walk for hours to fetch water as clean water is now within reach. We have time for other important things like taking care of our families and building our future. It's not just a dam; it's a lifeline. As a group, we have planted many trees from our tree nursery, which is a big milestone for us. As an individual, my greatest achievement would be getting the right farming skills, which have enabled me to improve the yields from my farm. The group and the community at large are testifying to a change in their lives now. No more sickness cases are being reported, and the farm produce just keeps getting better.

How do you feel when you think about all you have achieved through being a part of the sand dam project?

When I think about our sand dams and everything we’ve achieved together as a community, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. Knowing that we’ve created something that will benefit not just us, but future generations, gives me so much hope. It reminds me of the strength and unity we have when we come together with a shared purpose.

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Please donate what you can and help vulnerable dryland communities to end hunger with sand dams and clean water