Conclusion of Lukangaba Primary School Water Project – Zambia

This project has been completed under the direction of Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, Emily McKeone.

To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.

We would like to thank Emily for executing such a fine project and helping to complete 13 Zambia school borehole projects via our joint Water for Zambia program. We worked with Emily as PCV, and are proud to continue to work with her in her efforts as an RPCV.

Lukangba Primary School Conclusion Summary from Emily:  

The project aimed to relieve the water crisis that Lukangaba Primary School was facing. There was an old play pump structure at the school that had not worked since 2009. After demolition and removing the piping of this structure, a new, improved hand pump well was installed. Then, a soakaway apron and soak pit was dug to catch any runoff.   The primary result of the project is improved access to clean water and improved health. The borehole will provide access to clean, safe drinking water for at least 576 people daily, for an expected lifetime of 50 years.

As a result of this clean drinking water source, communities will experience improved health and sanitation. School attendance for teachers and pupils will improve, resulting in a better quality education for all.   Other community impacts could include improved food security, as the school will be able to create small gardens and orchards. Previously, the school was unable to create on-site gardens due to the long distance to reach a water source. This new water source will allow easy watering of plants and improved knowledge of gardening for students, as well as a convenient food source.

Remarks from Lukangaba Primary School:

“The year 2014 and 2015 rainy seasons have been a challenge to the country of Zambia. The region has experienced a drought that has caused the water table to dry completely.  As a result, the Lukangaba community, as well as Lukangaba school, are particularly grateful for the gesture received from Water Charity in shortening and eradicating the water crisis that had hit our school.

Due to the drought experienced in the area, the school and the entire Lukangaba community have relied on streams and shallow wells for water that is not safe or healthy for human consumption. However, with the now-rehabilitated borehole, the school and the surrounding community are now 100% secure in terms of safe drinking water.

As a school, and the Lukangaba community we extend our sincere gratitude to Mansa Municipal Council, Water Charity, and Emily McKeone (Chinyanta).”

We would like to thank Emily once again for yet another example of the great work that RPCVs can continue to do even well after they COS from the Peace Corps.  It is a great thing that the Lukangaba community and their primary school can have a reliable source of clean water. This program is part of the Water Charity and National Peace Corps Association East Africa Water and Sanitation Program.