This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Megan Konigkramer. To read about the start of the project, CLICK HERE.
The project was designed to repair 12 pumps in Bassar prefecture. In its implementation, much more was accomplished!
Megan reports:
The project addressed the need for access to potable water in the Bassar and Dankpen districts. In 18 villages we restored water pumps, saving hours of each day for women and children who previously traveled several kilometers to get life-giving water in rivers and streams.
In each village, a precise diagnosis of the problem with the pump was made, and the parts were ordered. An experienced pump technician arrived and made the necessary repairs.
The restoration of each pump increased access to clean water and sanitation systems for the entire population of the village. In total, the project touched well over 20,000 people living in the villages.
Upon revisiting these pumps for monitoring and evaluation five months later, we discovered that the community feeling was incredibly positive. Many of the community members claimed to have more time for work, and, in addition to falling sick less frequently, have benefited financially from the hours per day they have gained from a nearby water source, rather than walking several kilometers to the river to collect water that is not even clean.
We additionally trained members of the water committee in each village on basic maintenance of the pumps and covered best practices to ensure sustainability.
We extend our thanks to Megan for completing this important project.
