For 60 years, the Nzoka family of Kiruri Village in Mwingi North, Kitui County, built their lives on faith, resilience, and prayer. But when their young grandchildren began suffering from repeated diarrhoeal illnesses, their trust in divine protection was met with a heartbreaking reality—unsafe water was making the children sick and weak.

As devoted members of the Kavonokya sect, the family traditionally turned to prayer over medicine. But when CMMB Kenya introduced Purifier of Water (POW) Sachets through Community Health Promoters, something shifted. Instead of asking the family to abandon their beliefs, CMMB provided practical education, showing how contaminated water causes disease and how simple treatment could protect their grandchildren without compromising their faith.

The Nzokas made the decision to treat their drinking water. The results were immediate and undeniable.

Nzoka’s Wife, Mbuli Nzoka, filters and transfers the treated water into jerrycan

Today, the family’s grandchildren are healthier, more energetic, and free from the frequent diarrhea that once disrupted their lives. Time once lost to caregiving is now spent on farming, household work, and nurturing family bonds. The children eat, play, and grow as children should.

Nzoka reflects: “We have always trusted God through prayer. But since we started treating our water, our grandchildren rarely fall sick. They are healthier, happier—and we are grateful for the knowledge CMMB brought to our community.”

Nzoka’s wife serves him a cup of the treated water

This is not a story of replacing faith . It is a story of a respectful partnership—where health education meets cultural values, and communities are empowered to make informed choices.

Through affordable interventions, trust-building, and sustained engagement, CMMB Kenya is proving that lasting change starts at home. One Purifier of Water (POW) sachet at a time. One family at a time. One healthier family at a time.

For the Nzokas, safe water is no longer just a basic need—it is the foundation of a brighter, healthier future.

By Roy Mwangi