From Muddy to Clean Water in Aleng C Village

In Aleng C village, located in the Nwoya district of northern Uganda, access to clean water was once an impossible dream. For families like Auno Kevin’s, the only available sources were two hand-dug waterholes. Positioned at the bottom of a slope, these dirty water sources turned into muddy traps every time it rained.

Life Before the Borehole: Muddy Water and Midnight Walks

“It is the muddy water that we fetched for our household needs,” Auno said. “After leaving the water in the jerrican for some time, you could see the mud settle at the bottom.” That mud wasn’t just an eyesore—it represented a daily health risk for the entire community. Even worse, families often walked to the waterholes at night, hoping the sediment had time to settle. Auno remembered one night vividly: “My son had to come with me to light the way with a torch. I was scared for both of us.”

This situation is common across sub-Saharan Africa, where water from unprotected sources like waterholes or stagnant ponds leads to waterborne illnesses. Communities often have no choice but to use it—despite the dangers.

A Lasting Solution: Clean Water from a Borehole Well

Everything changed when Drop in the Bucket drilled a borehole well in Aleng C village. Unlike the previous sources, this deep borehole is protected from surface runoff and contamination. “With this clean borehole water, you have rescued us,” said Auno. “Now, no mass of any substance settles in our jerricans. The water comes out pure and clear.”

Safe, reliable water means families no longer need to wait or walk to the water source late at night. It also means fewer health risks and more time for children to attend school. Borehole wells like this are part of a broader effort by clean water charities to reduce the Africa water crisis one village at a time.

Aleng C’s New Beginning

Today, Aleng C village is thriving in ways that once felt out of reach. The borehole well provides water for cooking, bathing, drinking, and farming. It also brings peace of mind. Auno and her neighbors now take pride in keeping the area around the well clean and safe for everyone to use.

Stories like this show why sustainable access to clean water in Uganda and across sub-Saharan Africa is so critical. Learn more about how Drop in the Bucket drills wells in Uganda or explore other global efforts to end the water crisis.

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