Promised Land Foundation says livelihoods of people in Leonard Village, under Traditional Authority Kachere in Dedza, are set to improve following the installation of a potable water system that has alleviated their daily challenges.
Previously, women in the village had to walk over one and a half kilometres to fetch water, which exhausted them and led to family tensions. The new water system, valued at K17 million, has significantly reduced these hardships and brought peace to the community.
According to some residents of Leonard Village, women often had to wake up as early as 2 a.m. to access potable water, leading to frustration and disputes within households due to the exhaustion and mistrust it created.
Bilika Bokera, recounted how the long distances sapped her energy, leaving her unable to focus on farming or managing household chores.
“The place where we used to draw potable water is far from here. By the time we returned, we were too exhausted to prepare the children for school. I am grateful to Pastor Mark Kafunya for coordinating with Promised Land Foundation and all the well-wishers who made this water system possible. I hope this project will bring further development to our community,” said Bokera.
Pastor Kafunya expressed similar sentiments, noting that the village had faced severe water scarcity prior to 2020. His appeal to Promised Land Foundation founder, Tim Peloquin, was key in securing the new system.
“When Tim visited in 2020, he promised to help us, and now we have this water system valued at K17 million.
“I urge the community to take ownership of this system and remember the struggles we faced before its installation,” said Kafunya.
Traditional leaders, including Group Village Head Leonard, have pledged to safeguard the water system for the benefit of the entire community.
In addition to the water system in Leonard Village, Promised Land Foundation is also supporting 79 underprivileged children in Chumachatsala Village, within Traditional Authority Kachere.
Peloquin shared that the foundation plans to provide these children with essential items, such as school uniforms, textbooks, and scholarships for secondary and university education.
“Funds permitting, we aim to build a learning centre, a chapel, and a vocational training school. This will help those who may not progress to university to acquire entrepreneurial skills,” Peloquin explained.
The Promised Land Foundation (US) is committed to enhancing the lives of vulnerable communities in Zambia and Malawi, offering education, food, shelter, and spreading the Gospel through partnerships with other non-profit organisations.
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