In Kizingitini village, Lamu East, a group of determined women has turned hardship into opportunity through innovation and teamwork. Once struggling to make ends meet by selling secondhand clothes and fish, the members of Al-Jazau Women Group are now running a successful water business — thanks to a KSh 3.9 million grant from the County Government of Lamu through the KEMSFED program.

Faced with the persistent challenge of water scarcity in their village, the women saw an opportunity. After receiving training and support through the grant program, they invested in a Jabia (rainwater harvesting and storage system) to provide clean water to the community — a resource both precious and profitable.”We are very grateful to Governor Issa Timamy for believing in us,” said Mrs. Shadya, the group’s chairlady.

“This project has changed our lives. We can now pay school fees for our children, support our families, and live with dignity — something we could barely do before.”

The group’s initiative is now serving dozens of households, and profits from water sales are being reinvested to expand their reach. Beyond business, the women are proud of their role in solving a real community need.

They have pledged to safeguard the project and continue working together to improve their lives and the welfare of Kizingitini.

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For more information, contact the Communication Office at:communication@lamu.go.ke