This project is part of our 52 Pumps in 52 Weeks Program, being implemented by Peace Corps Volunteers Marcie Todd and Garrison Harward. To read about the program and follow its progress, CLICK HERE.
Location
Nema Bah, Fatick, Senegal
Community Description
As we said before this is the continuation of Pump #23 since we didn’t have enough money from one pump post to make all the necessary repairs for three pumps. This once again illustrates the importance not just of providing technologies to poverty stricken regions of the world, but of providing appropriate technologies that can actually survive in the region. These pumps installed by a very well-meaning NGO are not appropriate for rural Senegalese villages. It has cost us a lot of money to repair them, something that simply would not have happened if we didn’t step in.
Project Description
These pumps then aren’t ideal by any means, and in many ways it would be better for the group if we replaced them with our model. It was important however to show that they can be maintained by a local technician at an affordable rate. Foreign aid has taught people here to wait for outside solutions and gifts. These pumps will show the village that they can do it themselves.
The three pumps we’re working on need complete overhauls. The rest are still functioning and with maintenance shouldn’t ever need this kind of massive repair job. The three we’re working on should be able to function with a little maintenance as well for another 5-10 years by which time, if they so desire, the village can raise the money to purchase new ones from our local source. This is sustainability. It isn’t the most giving solution, but it’s the most effective.
Project Impact
75 Women and girls who work in the garden will benefit from these pumps.
Peace Corps Volunteer Directing Project
Garrison Harward and Erica Berlin
Comments
This investment will take away the uncertainty when repairs need to be made down the road. Often times when looking at complex technologies, villagers will throw them away rather than try to fix them. That won’t be the case for these pumps.
Dollar Amount of Project
$150.00
Donations Collected to Date
$150.00
$0.00 – This project has now been fully funded through the generosity of Jennifer L. Gustafson,of Chico, CA, USA.
We encourage others to continue to donate using the Donate button below, and we will notify Garrison and Marcie of your donation.
Any contributions in excess of the Dollar Amount of the Project will be allocated to projects directed by other PCVs in Senegal.
This project has been finished. To read about the conclusion of the project, CLICK HERE.