Osupukiai
“We used to know when the rains were coming, but we no longer do.”
– Chris Olkeseni, local Masai guide
Finding water is a constant struggle for the Nomadic Masai peoples who have been dispossessed of their customary land rights and forced to form permanent settlements. Osupukiai village’s water comes from a small seasonal lugga that only provides water during the rainy seasons which have become shorter because of climate change. Moreover, lugga water is not safe for drinking nor enough for livestock and crops, resulting in food insecurity and conflict over water.
In 2021, we established a reliable water supply for the village and surrounding communities, by installing a borehole with solar-powered pumping and water storage of up to 20,000 litres for households. The system is designed for growth and to manage water when it is overcast, rainy or drought.
Now the project is bringing in income for the community. The women of Osupukiai run the compound and water users pay 20 Kenya Shillings (15p) for each 30L jerrycan of water. They also have customers signed up for domestic water at 400KES/month which is saving these households money.
- 520 people now have access to safe, clean water and increased sanitation levels.
- 52 women have sustainable livelihoods thanks to the water kiosk which they can use to support their families.
- 240 children are benefitting from increased access to education, a new library and communication hub, and football facilities.
- 300 people now have access to internet connectivity.
Surpluses from the sale of water pay for maintenance of the water supply, and go towards further developments such as electricity, table banking, and education. The project creates local skills in maintaining reliable water with four permanent jobs. Villagers have been trained to run and maintain the solar water pump and storage tanks.
Future plans
Establish goat farming using closed-loop methods to provide food and milk for the local community.
Support the local women to establish a Ghee-making enterprise which they have identified as an opportunity to generate income for their families.
Our aims
Water supply
Building a reliable water supply for the village and surrounding communities.
Skills and eduction
Creating local skills and permanent jobs to build and maintain the water supply.
UN Sustainable Development Goals
Our work in Osupukiai Village supports the following Sustainable Development Goals:
