Before the well in Agata–Ayou, Benin, villagers walked over a kilometre each day to fetch water from a nearby river. The water was unsafe, but it was all they had. The journey was long, the water heavy, and sickness was common.
Everything began to change when access to clean water and the Living Water was provided to Agata–Ayou. Once provided, safe water began to flow—right in the heart of the community. The joy was unmistakable. “Thanks to GAiN, I have drinking water,” shared Agènon Albert. “And I also have the solution to all situations. The solution is Jesus.”
With the arrival of clean water came renewed life. Women could focus on the wellbeing of their families and communities, children had more time for school, and a drastic reduction in sickness.
But the transformation didn’t stop there. GAiN’s local team led two Hygiene and Sanitation Trainings, teaching families and helping the community adopt healthy habits like regular handwashing to prevent disease.
Ninety-seven villagers attended these trainings. Gagnon Denise shared, “I carefully followed the hygiene training which will allow me to take good care of my family.” Others, like Kpadonou Madeleine, learned simple but life-changing practices: “It is thanks to this training that I learned about handwashing. In the past, I washed my hands improperly.”
Through the Household Harmony Workshop, relationships within families also began to heal. Sixty-four villagers came together for open discussions about gender roles and domestic abuse, fostering mutual understanding and empathy.
One husband reflected, “I will no longer take away all my wife’s rights and, above all, I will give her priority in making certain decisions with me.” Another woman added, “This training will allow me to stop insulting my husband, to get along with him so that there is peace in my home.”
Spiritual renewal followed. The community gathered for two JESUS Film Showings, where thirty villagers made decisions to follow Christ. Hounsi Martine said, “The film Jesus greatly gladdened my heart because the entire film is centered on Jesus.”
During 15 follow-up visits, new believers like Gandjekpo Marie shared “Glory to God, the Lord Jesus used His servants to enable me to love His Word. Tonight, His Word has strengthened me even more.” Mindeto Bernadette also shared how God’s word strengthened their faith: “Great is the love of God. He chose me and allowed me to continue the journey with Him.”
Today, Agata–Ayou is no longer defined by the struggle for water, but by the hope that now flows through its homes, families, and hearts. Clean water opened the door to lasting transformation—physically, relationally, and spiritually.
Leave a Reply