This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Heather Van Wie. To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.
The project was to repair and improve ten existing wells in the community by reinforcing their existing structures with cement and rebar and creating cement covers with metal doors.
Heather reports:
The Thainfara Mawno well improvement project has been successfully completed.
Two local masons have completed ten wells in Thainfara Mawno, using bricks and cement to form the structures and cover the wells with 2.5 by 2.5-foot metal doors. The bases of the wells have been well protected by an extra slab of cement, keeping the well area clean of mud and dirt.
A metal worker from the local road town of Kounkane provided the work for the metal door covers, including hinges and handles, and all extra material – sand and rocks for the mixing of cement – was provided by the villagers. The chief of the village, Amadou Gano, purchased and transported the cement from Kounkane.
Heather reports on how the project was received by the community:
The villagers are proud to have such well-built and protected wells. They are grateful that the wells no longer pose a threat to their children or their health.
The completion of the project was celebrated with a meeting of men and women who learned about the benefits of bleaching their wells every month to kill microbes and bacteria.
Visitors from other villages have asked about the new wells and the people of Thainfara Mawno are proud to explain to them the benefits of a covered well and the new style.
Thanks go out to the sponsors of Appropriate Projects. The people of Thainfara Mawno send their greetings, and I personally am thankful to have participated in such a rewarding project.
We wish to thank The Soneva SLOW LIFE Trust for providing the funding for the project.
