Well Beër-Lahai-Roï

A village amid the greenery

After a long journey along narrow sandy paths, straight through dense forest, a beautiful village suddenly comes into view. Hidden among the greenery, the huts lie scattered beneath tall trees. We park our car among the houses and walk to the chief's house, where we are warmly welcomed.

The forest pool

One of the children enthusiastically takes us by the hand. She wants to show us where they used to fetch their water. Together we walk along a narrow path, between waving palms and brightly coloured flowers, deeper and deeper into the greenery. A little later we stand by a small forest pool. For years this was the place the village depended on for water.

The children burst out laughing when we scoop up some water and splash them. Their cheerfulness contrasts with the reality: this stagnant water was their daily source; not always clean, not always safe.

The opening of the water pump

When we return to the village, a crowd has gathered. Men, women and children have come together for a special moment: the opening of the new water pump. The tension and joy are palpable. And then the moment arrives. The first strokes are made. The sound of the pump rings out across the square, and there the water flows. Clear. Clean. Fresh.

What a difference. No more long walks to the forest pool. No more uncertainty about the quality of the water. But close to home, a reliable source of life.

The name Beër-Lahai-Roï

The well in Kitorma bears the name Beër-Lahai-Roï. Hagar said: "You are the God Who sees me," after her encounter with the Angel of the LORD in the desert. Here too, the sign with the Bible verse stands by the pump, so that the Word of God travels along with the water every day.

A lasting blessing

The smiles on their faces speak volumes. This water pump means health, time, safety and above all: hope for the future.

Photo impression

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