This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Marcie Todd. To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.
The project was to construct and install a rope pump on the well in Usine Coton.
Marcie reports:
The process of installing the pump went rather smoothly after the slight debacle of the mason cementing the pump into the well cap.
When it came time to do the final installation of the pump all the people directly affected by the pump arrived. There was clapping and dancing, but most shocking and exciting was that the men were/are still really into using the pump. It’s as if the task of pulling water has now become more manly!
One man named Sow said, “Pulling water is a lot faster,” while the kids showered underneath the spout. The women danced and sang “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” It was really a thrilling experience for us all!
This project is the predecessor to a new program to be started soon entitled 52 Pumps in 52 Weeks. The lessons learned will be put into a year-long endeavor whereby Marcie and Peace Corps Volunteer Garrison Harward will go from village to village installing pumps and teaching the technology.
We are grateful to Marcie for demonstrating this process, and also to Creative Crossroads Promotional Products for providing the funding.
