Hope Grows with Water: 13-year-old Esther gains Agricultural Skills

In many rural parts of Zambia, schools struggle just to get enough water. This causes big problems like poor sanitation, hygiene issues, and limited chances for farming or other activities that could help students and their communities. That is how things used to be at Kasamba Secondary School in Zambia. 

“But everything changed when we got help from World Vision Zambia,” says 13-year-old Esther, a student at the school.

She is grateful for the support. “Thanks to their support, we now have a borehole that gives us clean, reliable water. It’s made such a difference!” 

Previously, it was impossible for the school to start any form of farming because it lacked water. But in 2022, World Vision drilled a borehole, giving Esther and her friends a chance to learn agriculture.

“Gardening is good because it helps us make money. Now, we have our own vegetables, and we can get food for ourselves.” Esther is excited about how the water has helped her and her friends.

Before the borehole, they often struggled with water shortages. ,

“Sometimes it was hard to wash properly or keep clean, especially during girls’ menstrual hygiene days. But now, with water nearby, everything is better.” 

The school Headteacher, Mr. Sakayi Kahilu said water has resulted in improved sanitation, especially for girls and women. 

“We have also started programs to teach girls about menstrual hygiene, so they can stay clean and confident,” says Mr. Kahilu.

The garden has become a real game-changer. 

“In just a year, our garden made around K5000, which we used to buy chalk and other supplies. Now, we’re planning to grow even more vegetables,” he says, “The garden helps us teach students about farming, nutrition, and self-reliance. It’s a hands-on way for students to learn life skills.”

The students love working in the garden. 

“Gardening helps us get healthy food and learn how to take care of ourselves. It makes me happy to see the vegetables we grow,” says Esther.

She dreams big. “I want to finish school and maybe become a farmer or a teacher so I can help others.” 

Most importantly, the support from World Vision has helped keep children safe and protected. “Thanks to World Vision Zambia, our children are safe and able to focus on their education. That’s a huge step forward for Kasamba.”

Looking back, Sakayi says, “Without World Vision, we wouldn’t be where we are today. Water has brought hope, health, and new opportunities.” 

With more support, Mr. Sakayi believes Kasamba can keep growing, turning challenges into chances and planting seeds of hope for everyone.