Nestled about 25 kilometers outside Gulu city lies Ngom Rom, a small village with a name that translates to “Places are the same” in English. Yet, what set this village apart was a significant challenge it faced – the absence of clean water. The nearest water source was a waterhole about a kilometer away that was fed by a stream.  Its water was neither clean nor safe for consumption. This led to frequent illnesses among the villagers due to drinking contaminated water.

The old water source for Ngom Rom village

When Drop in the Bucket was approached about drilling a well for Ngom Rom, it was clear that this project would be no easy feat. The area was described as “water-stressed,” with previous attempts by other organizations proving unsuccessful.

A New Beginning: Clean Water Flows in Ngom Rom

On February 2nd, 2022, Drop in the Bucket embarked on drilling down 56 meters to reach an aquifer, ultimately providing Ngom Rom with the precious gift of clean water.

The drilling marked a turning point for the village. With clean water now accessible to the entire community, life began to change. No longer did villagers have to trek long distances to fetch water. Nor did they have to worry about falling ill from drinking contaminated water.

“The impact was immediate,” shared Otim Geofrey, Mayor of Pece-Laroo. “We saw fewer cases of waterborne illnesses, and the overall health of the village improved significantly.”

A Promise Fulfilled

For the residents of Ngom Rom, the new well was not just a source of clean water but a symbol of unity and resilience. It represented a community coming together to overcome a shared challenge.

As clean water flowed in Ngom Rom, hope and opportunity followed. Children no longer missed school due to sickness, and families could focus on farming and other livelihood activities. Water scarcity went from being a daily concern to being a thing of the past.

Angom Hellen collects water from the new well

Looking Towards a Brighter Future

Today, Ngom Rom stands as a testament to what can be achieved when communities and organizations work together. The well continues to provide clean, safe water to the villagers, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for generations to come.

“We are forever grateful to Drop in the Bucket and Angom Hellen for bringing safe water to our village,” expressed one villager. “It has changed our lives in ways we never thought possible.”

With clean water flowing freely, the village is poised for a brighter future filled with health, opportunity, and hope.