More Than Just Water

Water is a hot commodity in the village of Nangumbu B, in southern Tanzania. 

Global Aid Network (GAiN) provided a deep-capped water well to this community in 2019 and the village is putting it to good use. The water point is constantly buzzing with people coming to fill buckets from their homes, schools, and places of work. It has become the lively centre of activity in the village and at peak times, the well draws great crowds. 

As the villagers wait for their water, they end up talking with one another and sharing about their families and their days at work. A group of women took advantage of the large crowds and long lines, turning it into an innovative business opportunity!

These women set up a small stand next to the well to sell tomatoes and other local produce. Now, as people are waiting for water, they can shop at this mini market! The convenient location and in-demand stock have led to a thriving business for the women and they are making good sales. These smart business women have plans to grow their stand and provide more options to the people. The water point is evolving into an economic and social hub, enabling safe use of clean water while promoting local businesses.

As economic opportunities continue to grow in Nangumbu B, so does the local church. Since the provision of the well, five JESUS Film showings have taken place in the village. A total of 1,574 people attended the showings and, after seeing the film, 83 people made the decision to become followers of Jesus and attend a follow-up meeting. In May 2019, through a partnership with a local church nearby, a new church was planted in the village, giving these new believers a place to gather for worship and grow in their faith. Now the villagers have even more to talk about as they wait for water and shop at the mini market!

Gospel Presentations 89,031
Decisions for Christ 9,331
New believers in follow-up 3,163
Women & children cared for 427
Bags of blessing 8,000
Deep-capped water wells provided 227
People with access to clean & safe water 227,000
Servings of dehydrated soup mix shipped 1,100,000
Churches planted through local church 72
Impoverished children fed 101,564