Back in Class: Elizabeth’s Story

Nestled in the heart of Kanywambogo, Uganda, Ryabatenga Primary School tells a tale of transformation, where the lives of 1073 boys and girls have been touched by the simple gift of clean water and safe latrines. 

For Elizabeth, a student at the school, the change goes beyond water and toilets though.

Before the arrival of a new tap stand and latrines, life was a constant and daily struggle for Elizabeth and her friends. A 30-minute walk to a shared tap stand and the absence of proper, private latrines meant missing classes during menstrual cycles—a quiet suffering shared by many girls. 

Elizabeth shared honestly, “Some girls used to be absent until menstruation stopped.”

She vividly remembers the days of lining up for the lone latrine, shared by all of her fellow students. But thanks to the generosity of people like you, a new tap stand and latrines were built, transforming their school into a place of accessibility and cleanliness! 

The relief in Elizabeth’s voice was obvious as she described the project’s results, “We are now happy because everything is now clean and available! This time, we have enough latrines, smart and clean, and now, 2 minutes are enough for me to visit the latrine and go back to class. So, I am very, very grateful because our performance is going to be better!”

The imagery of students putting down their jerry cans and picking up books paints a picture of a community reclaiming their time and focus. The lessons extend beyond academics; they’ve embraced new hygiene habits, fostering a sense of responsibility and care for their well-being.

Acts for Water, with its commitment to making a real difference, becomes a beacon of hope thanks to your help. Not only do Elizabeth and her friends have access to clean water and toilets, but they also have the promise of healthier and brighter futures. 

What a reminder that every act of generosity can create ripples of positive change in the lives of those who need it most!

World Toilet Day is November 19th. Every gift of $24 you give will be MATCHED by Pitt Meadows Plumbing up to $12,500. 

Give by November 19th to double your impact so that more students like Elizabeth can know the joy of health and education!