In Makueni County, a remarkable transformation is taking place as women step into more active roles in governance and accountability. We had the privilege of engaging women from three groups—Nguumo Women Group, Maendeleo ya Wanawake, and Wise-widows Women Group for a ground-breaking training on social accountability in water governance.

The three-day workshop had a clear mission: to empower marginalized women with the tools and confidence to make their voices heard about accessing water and sanitation services. As primary household decision-makers regarding water, these women are now positioned to challenge the status quo and demand better services from duty bearers.

"As women, we should not let fear dictate the intensity of our involvement in community development," remarked one participant, echoing the sentiments of the legendary Wangari Maathai, whose story of courage and environmental activism inspired many during the training.

The women candidly shared the barriers they face in water governance: cultural restrictions from spouses, inadequate awareness of public participation schedules, inaccessible venues for those with disabilities, and a general fear of speaking up. Most revealing was their limited knowledge of which government officials are responsible for various water-related services.

Through interactive sessions, the participants learned about governance structures, human rights-based advocacy, and practical social accountability tools such as community scorecards, civic education, and photo evidence. They practiced effective communication techniques and participated in role-playing scenarios that highlighted the importance of approaching the correct duty bearers with community concerns.

Caroline Ngina, Assistant Director of Water Governance from the County Government of Makueni, challenged the women to foster genuine interest in community forums and continuously engage local leaders. She highlighted the severe vandalization of water infrastructure and tasked the participants to become champions of water governance in their communities.

Perhaps the most promising outcome was the creation of advocacy plans by each women group. These plans outlined specific community issues, potential solutions, and stakeholders to engage. The Maendeleo ya Wanawake group focused on water shortages in Kathungu, while Nguumo women targeted low water supply in Wote. The Wise-widows group from Mwaani committed to addressing water rationing and high prices in their area.

As the training concluded, the participants formed a WhatsApp group to maintain communication and collaboration, ensuring that the momentum built during these three days continues to grow. They committed to sharing their newfound knowledge with fellow group members, creating a ripple effect of empowerment throughout their communities.

In a region where women's passions range from kitchen gardening and poultry keeping to tree seedling management and vegetable value addition, access to clean and affordable water is not just a convenience, it is the foundation of economic independence and community resilience.