Historic Day for Community Empowerment: The Official Launch of the Erupata SMART Villages

A New Dawn for Rural Innovation

A New Dawn for Rural Innovation

Today marked a significant milestone as we welcomed our partners, well-wishers, and the broader community to celebrate and witness a transformative achievement in livelihood and economic empowerment: the Official Launch of the Erupata SMART Villages!.

In 2016, we partnered with Compassion International Kenya to reach out to the marginalized communities in Erupata with the focus being on the Children. Through the partnership and with a very dedicated team of staff from ADS SR led by the Project Patron Ven Naikumi, caregivers have undergone various capacity-building sessions on economic empowerment as well as parenting.

The SMART Village Project is one of the key areas of interest and is a testament to our unwavering dedication to innovation, collaboration, and uplifting communities. The SMART Village model represents a leap forward in community development, blending tradition with technology to ensure a sustainable, prosperous future for Erupata communities.

This model ensures that each village benefits from the following key components: Access to Clean Water: Ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of clean water to meet the community’s daily needs. Sustainable Agriculture: Establishing kitchen gardens to promote food security and nutritional health. Environmental Conservation Encouraging tree planting as part of our commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Energy Efficiency: Utilizing improved cooking stoves (“jikos”) that reduce fuel consumption and improve air quality and Enhanced Sanitation: Providing access to decent and adequate sanitation facilities, including modern toilets, to improve hygiene and public health.

In a key moment for the Erupata community, three essential water projects were launched today, marking a new era of empowerment and sustainability. Robert from Compassion International Kenya unveiled the community water kiosk, a beacon of hope providing clean, safe water for residents. As water flowed from the taps, the community’s joy was evident in their smiles and celebrations. This kiosk will now serve as a central hub, drastically reducing the long, exhausting journeys once made in search of this precious resource.

Shortly after, Elizabeth from World Serve International inaugurated a 130-meter-deep borehole that yields 3,000 liters of water per hour, equipped with two 10,000-liter tanks. Currently being upgraded to a hybrid system for continuous water supply, this project symbolizes resilience, providing reliable water and renewed hope to the village.

Finally, Rt. Rev. Ernest Nge’no, Diocesan Bishop, blessed the church water kiosk, a spiritual and practical resource for the community, symbolizing faith, unity, and the promise of a healthier, more sustainable future. Present also to witness this event was Mr. Eric representing the Director of Narok Water Resources Authority. Our Bishop was not left out of experiencing a feel of the freshly flowing water.

Our journey into the heart of the SMART Villages in Erupata unveiled inspiring stories from three households where innovation and tradition seamlessly interlinked. Each home showcased flourishing kitchen gardens, filled with various vegetables, reflecting the community’s dedication to sustainable living. These gardens, carefully fenced and cultivated by the women, served as both a source of nourishment and a symbol of empowerment.

Complemented by improved jikos (stoves) that reduce smoke and fuel consumption, the initiative promotes better health for families while ensuring a safer indoor atmosphere.

The newly planted trees added ecological value, enhancing the visual appeal of each household while supporting environmental sustainability. Modern housing and sanitation facilities, including clean toilets, further emphasized the community’s commitment to improved living standards.

The women shared their pride in nurturing their gardens and joy in watching their children thrive in healthier environments. This collaborative effort not only transformed their homes but also strengthened their roles within the community, embodying the promise of a brighter future for all.

This joyous occasion was honored by the presence of the Diocesan Bishop, the Right Rev. Ernest Ngeno, and brought together an inspiring assembly of partners, community members, project beneficiaries, and well-wishers. Among the distinguished guests were representatives from the Governor’s Office, political leaders, county and sub-county officials, local administration, as well as dedicated staff from World Serve International and Compassion International Kenya.

As we gathered to celebrate this special day, the act of tree planting could not be left behind. Our beloved Diocesan Bishop led the community and guests in not merely placing tree seedlings into the earth; but we were sowing hope, encouraging biodiversity, and combating climate change. Each tree we plant stands as a testament to our commitment to the planet and our communities, offering shade, clean air, and a habitat for wildlife!

Each speaker who took to the podium offered heartfelt testimonials, expressing gratitude to ADS SR through World Serve and Compassion International Kenya for their invaluable support to the community. Various guests and leaders addressed key issues facing the community, sharing insights and guidance. The Director of the Children’s Department emphasized the critical need for children’s registration to obtain birth certificates, ensuring their rights and identities. The area Chief issued a stern warning against the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM), advocating for the protection of women and girls.

A representative from the Water Resources Authority highlighted the importance of adhering to legal requirements, including taxes related to borehole maintenance. The Sub County Administrator underscored the necessity of proper sanitation by promoting the construction of toilets and called for action against alcoholism. The day was filled with accolades for the significant progress being made in Erupata, reflecting the collaborative efforts of both the County and Sub County Governments in driving development and positive change.

The SMART Village initiative has not only provided access to clean water and improved agricultural practices but has also encouraged a culture of empowerment and self-sufficiency among our families. The flourishing kitchen gardens, modern sanitation facilities, and improved cooking methods will enhance the health and well-being of our community members, leading to better nutrition and overall quality of life. Moreover, the emphasis on children’s registration and community safety reinforces our commitment to protecting our future generations.

Together, we have laid the foundation for a sustainable, resilient community that can withstand challenges and seize growth opportunities.

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