McLeod Goliath, Witness Mwale and their 4 children live in the rural community of Katera, in central Malawi. For this family, life has changed dramatically—from one of uncertainty, poor health and daily risk—to one of dignity, hope and stability, all thanks to access to clean water.

The Sonder Project, with the support of Barker Williams, drilled a well in Katera. Today, that well is just a one-minute walk from the Goliath family home. We had the privilege of sitting down with them in May 2025 to hear how life has changed since then.

But first—let’s rewind.

McLeod (32) and Witness (28) met at a local market a decade ago and have been married for 9 years. McLeod now serves as the treasurer of the Sonder water committee, which is responsible for maintaining the new well. 

Their children—Josef (15), followed by Mariam (8), Feston (7) and baby Trinity (4 months)— bring life and laughter to their home. 

The three eldest attend elementary school.  McLeod attended school through Grade 4, and Witness through Grade 7. As we’d soon learn, the well has brought major improvements not just to their household, but to their children’s education too.

Long Distances, Hidden Dangers

Before the well was installed, the Goliath family relied on the nearby Bua River for all their water needs: drinking, cooking, bathing, and cleaning. At times, they also used a shallow, open well where people also herded cattle, fished, and even defecated.

A local woman collecting water at the crocodile-infested Bua River.

Witness, like many women in the village, used to trek long distances across rocky terrain—often carrying a baby on her back and a heavy bucket in her hands. The journey wasn’t just exhausting; it was dangerous. The water was unsafe, and the threat of crocodile attacks at the river was very real.

McLeod’s own cousin, a young man of 29, was tragically caught and killed by a crocodile in early 2024 when they went to collect water together. In this community, one would hear at least 5 similar stories every year.

Contaminated water brought further hardship. The children suffered frequent bouts of diarrhea—sometimes five to six times a month—requiring long walks to the government clinic in Chambwe, nine kilometers away.

“We weren’t living a life that we hoped for our family – we always looked forward to living in a community with access to a safe well.” says Witness. “For as long as people have lived here there has been no well. We were very excited to have the addition in our community.”

Today: A Healthier, Happier Life

Life after the well is completely different. 

Feston and Mariam enjoying the clean water from the Sonder well.

Clean Water = Improved Health

“It was normal to bathe 2-3 times a week,” said McLeod.  “Now, bathing daily is not a burden—it’s just part of life.”With easy access to water, the children now go to school clean, on time, and proud.

First-born, Josef (15): “I feel more confident going to school now because I’m wearing clean clothes and bathe in the morning before school, unlike before.”

Improved Health = More Time

McLeod farms for his family’s survival and earns about 4,000 Kwacha ($2) per day doing seasonal work. When the children were frequently sick, he often had to miss work. Today, thanks to improved health and saved time, he expects a better harvest—and more stable income. With her time no longer spent walking for water, Witness can support the farm too.

The Goliath family working together to harvest corn.

More Time = Stronger Family & Community

“The borehole has helped the whole community,” McLeod reflected. “Now everyone is able to plan out their day and have time for activities that are beneficial to them, like working together on their farms. You can see all our homes are cleaner now, too.”

For the Goliaths—and for the entire community of Katera—the well is more than a water source. It’s a foundation for a better life, today and for generations to come.

The Goliath family together at the Sonder well.