A Water Miracle in Rapeising Village, Mokhotlong District, Lesotho

By: Lerato Brown, Communications and Marketing Manager, Lesotho

For over six decades, the village of Rapeising suffered under the weight of a basic necessity denied: ‘water’. The echoes of countless pleas for help resounded through the rugged mountains of Mokhotlong, reaching the ears of organizations and governments alike, only to be met with silence. Until, in March 2024, when World Vision answered their call.

"Since I was born in this village, we've been struggling with water," shared Liphehlo Sekhosana, the village chief, with a heavy heart. "We had given up hope of Rapeising ever getting water."

"We had given up hope of Rapeising ever getting water." - Liphehlo Sekhosana

Before the construction of the water system, life in Rapeising was defined by struggle. Springs, their only source of water, were fraught with challenges. Often contaminated by animal waste and human excreta, the water brought on more sickness than sustenance to their lives. And so, the villagers endured long walks, enduring bitter cold and treacherous paths, just to quench their thirst.

"We used to fetch water from the springs, but it was always dirty," recalled Mampho Sekhosana, a mother in the village. "I would wake up early in the morning while still dark to avoid long queues, fearing for my safety, just to fetch water."

For Mampho Sekhosana and her daughter Kefiloe, the burden was particularly heavy. Daily journeys to the spring robbed them of precious time and security. Kefiloe, just twelve years old, faced dangers beyond her years, returning home late and vulnerable to the darkness that covered the village. Her dreams of play were overshadowed by the harsh reality of survival.

"I used to stand in long queues at the spring and return home late at night," Kefiloe shared. "I was often scared and beaten by my parents for arriving home late."

In the educational realm, the struggle persisted. Teacher Masephetho witnessed first-hand the toll of water scarcity on her students. Late arrivals and compromised hygiene became the norm, hindering not only their education but also their health and dignity.

The chief tells us that through their regular assessments of these vulnerable areas, World Vision Lesotho picked up the water challenge in their village. After consulting with him and other village elders, the organization was back in just three months, ready to commence with the water works! A Water system that sources water from the mountain spring and twelve taps emerged, like lifelines, breathing life into Rapeising's parched earth.

 Zacharia Sekhosana, a villager, marveled at the transformation. “Ever since having access to running water, there has been less conflicts over water," Zacharia Sekhosana remarked with gratitude. "Now, the sick and disabled no longer struggle, and children can arrive at school on time."

"Now, the sick and disabled no longer struggle, and children can arrive at school on time." - Zacharia Sekhosana

The impact of having access to clean and safe running water rippled beyond the village borders. School attendance has improved, and hygiene flourished in the 4 months since installation. With water no longer a distant dream, families are beginning to thrive. Mampho found joy in simple pleasures, relishing the moments spent with her loved ones. Lineo reveled in the safety of bathing at home, free from the shadows of the night.