Gazelle Impact kenya
Sustainable Water Access at Bariki Community
About the Project
At Gazelle Impact Kenya, access to clean water is regarded as a fundamental human right. The Bariki community in rural Kenya has historically faced persistent water shortages due to limited piped water infrastructure, reliance on rainwater harvesting, and increasingly unpredictable rainfall patterns driven by climate change. These challenges have negatively impacted daily life, health, sanitation, food security, and agricultural productivity in the area.
To address this urgent need, Gazelle Impact initiated a transformative water access project designed to provide a reliable, sustainable, and safe source of water for the Bariki Community Center and neighboring households.
What Was Done
In 2023–2024, with generous support from donors including the Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque, the Presentation Sisters of Dubuque, and numerous individual contributors, Gazelle Impact drilled a 270-meter (approximately 270-foot) borehole at the Bariki Community Center site. A hybrid water pumping system was installed — primarily powered by solar energy with an electrical backup — to ensure year-round water availability in an energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable way. A protective kiosk and storage tanks were also incorporated to safeguard equipment and facilitate water distribution.
This project goes beyond increasing water availability — it provides a lifeline for improved community well-being:
- Reliable clean water reduces dependency on uncertain rainwater harvesting and helps prevent waterborne diseases.
- Improved sanitation and health outcomes support better overall living conditions.
- Greater food security and agricultural stability through reliable irrigation and water for gardens.
- Community resilience in the face of climate variability.
By fostering sustainable water access, Gazelle Impact is helping to strengthen health, education, economic opportunity, and long-term community development in Bariki and surrounding areas.
Highlights
Borehole Installation: A deep, sustainable borehole has been drilled to ensure a dependable and long-term source of clean water for the community.
- Solar-Powered Pumping System: The project includes a solar-powered hybrid pumping system with electrical backup, guaranteeing reliable water access regardless of weather conditions.
Expanded Community Benefit: Water from the borehole serves not only the Bariki Community Center but also the surrounding households, increasing access for the wider community.
Infrastructure Support: A protective kiosk and storage tanks have been installed to safeguard equipment and maintain consistent water distribution.
Strengthening Community Growth: Reliable water access enhances agriculture, improves sanitation, boosts food security, and contributes to the overall well-being and resilience of the community.
