Omoro, Uganda: Lamin Lawino Ogwari village

Until recently, the village of Lamin Lawino Ogwari in Omoro, Uganda suffered from a lack of clean water. Members of the the village walked long distances to a shallow waterhole that they shared with livestock. By the time they arrived, cows and goats were often standing in the pooled water, stirring up mud and waste. Everyone in the village from small children to the elderly knew the water wasn’t safe, but there was no other option. This polluted water was the only water for miles around, so they had no choice but to drink it. Children missed class to help fetch water; mothers spent hours each day queuing and carrying heavy jerry cans; stomach illness es were a constant issue and people just got used to being sick from drinking the water.

That changed with the installation of a new deep borehole well fitted with a hand pump in the heart of the village. The water is clear, fresh, and safe to drink—no more competing with animals or scooping from muddy ponds. Instead of a long trek for unsafe water, families now have a reliable source just minutes from home. The time saved each day means children—especially girls—can stay in school, and parents can focus on farming, small businesses, and family life.

Sustainability is built into the project. A local Water Source Committee received training in basic operation, record-keeping, and maintenance planning. Households agreed on small contributions to a repair fund, and local hand-pump mechanics were identified so fixes can happen quickly when needed. Alongside the well, DROP facilitated hygiene and sanitation sessions—covering handwashing, safe water storage, and latrine use—so the health benefits of clean water are fully realized.

How Things are Now in Lamin Lawino Ogwari

Community members are already reporting fewer waterborne illnesses and less time lost to clinic visits. Hours once spent walking for water are now spent doing more productive things. Children are getting to go to school, families are spending more time tending to their produce, people are setting up small businesses and making money. What was once a daily struggle has become a source of dignity, safety, and hope.

Thank you to everyone whose generosity made this possible. Clean water has truly changed everything for Lamin Lawino Ogwari. If you’d like to help bring a well to the next village in need, please consider supporting our work.