This project is made possible through the partnership of WATER CHARITY and the NATIONAL PEACE CORPS ASSOCIATION. 
Location
Albreda Major Health, North Bank, West Region-Gambia 
Community Description
The target community comprises 16 villages with a total population of approximately 12,200. The majority of the residents are farmers or fishermen.
The clinic was established approximately 12 years ago. They conduct deliveries, have a lying-in facility, do immunization, laboratory services, and minor surgery. They send “flying squads” to outlying communities to do immunizations, well-baby, and pre-natal examinations.
There are 24 paid and 2 volunteer staff. Nursing Officer in charge: Sanna Keita, R.N.
Problem Addressed
The clinic has an operational borehole with a solar-powered pump which is also operational. A cement water tower supports 4 plastic tanks in adequate condition.
The existing plumbing, however, is leaking badly and much is either broken or in a serious state of disrepair. One shower, for example, had been running full-bore for at least 3 months without any means to shut off the flow other than to climb the water tower and shut off the entire system. This they have been doing nightly, but it is likely that millions of liters of water have been wasted. The laboratory is without a water supply. Many toilets are unusable. The staff quarters need standpipes. The plumbing system of the outpatient block is pouring effluent onto the ground, creating a health hazard.
Project Description
This project is to upgrade the water system at the health center.
A detailed inspection was performed by the plumber at which time he made some temporary repairs to shut off the rogue shower. 
Proposed work:
o Major changes to the entire plumbing system with shut-off valves that can be activated in event of a leak.
o Water supply to the immunization facility and the lab.
o Repair to the plumbing at the maternity ward.
o The outpatient block waste pipes will be connected to the main waste disposal system.
o Four standpipes will be installed, including the staff quarters.
o One of the 4 visitor’s toilet booths will be condemned. It is unsalvageable. The remaining three need new flush toilets with water supply to the toilets.
Water Charity funds will be used to pay for materials and skilled labor. The community will do whatever unskilled labor is necessary and also provide food for the workers.
Project Impact
The catchment area’s population of more than 12,000 people will benefit greatly from this project, the bulk of whom will be women.
Project Administration
Mike McConnell, Managing Trustee, GambiaRising and former Country Director for Peace Corps in The Gambia, and Emily Lundberg, PhD., Working Water The Gambia, led by WAME (Ebrima Marong and David Levine).
Monitoring and Maintenance
The monitoring and maintenance team consists of Ebrima Marong (WAME/GambiaRising Working Water program coordinator) and Dr. David Levine, supported by the clinic staff. This team will monitor the system after completion. Clinic staff with notify WAME staff in the event of problems.
Let Girls Learn
Most of the work of this clinic is for mothers and children. Healthy children and healthy families will help girls learn.
Project Funding
This project has been made possible through the generosity of an anonymous donor.
This project is part of our ongoing Western Africa Water & Sanitation Program, and donations using the Donate button below will be allocated to projects in that program.
Funds raised in excess of the project amount will be allocated to other projects in the country.