Location
Kerr Werko (Sotokoi), Upper Niumi District, North Bank Region, The Gambia
Community Description
Kerr Werko (Sotokoi) is a rural village located in the northern part of The Gambia, in the Upper Niumi District. Culturally, it is composed of many tribes, the Wolof, the Fulla, Mandinka, and Seerer. It is the home of about 350 people, whose livelihood depends on farming and livestock. Though the village is small, it is diverse and peaceful.
Obtaining enough water for survival is very difficult due to the location of Kerr Werko. The water table in the area is at a depth of 25 meters. The inhabitants of Kerr Werko rely on one hand pump for drinking water, and another which is used only for laundry and cleaning (the water from that one has a salty taste that deters the villagers from drinking it).
About two years ago, the people of Kerr Werko realized that the water from the pump for drinking had acquired an odd taste and smell. However, no one became sick, so they continued to drink it, not knowing the cause. Last month, the pump stopped producing water, leaving the community members to walk to the next village to fetch water from an uncovered well.
Upon inspection of the faulty well, they discovered that a tap root from a nearby tree had broken through several sections of the well’s retaining wall. In time, the root had reached the bottom of the well, and sucked it dry.
Project Description
This project is to repair the well and restore it to full functionality to provide safe drinking water. The project will be carried out under the direction of the Kerr Werko (Sotokoi) Water Committee.
Project funds will be used to purchase 11 bags of cement, 9 rods of two sizes, binding wire, transport of these materials, and to pay for the services of a trained mason to make the appropriate repairs and extend the well.
In the past, the villagers have pooled their money to make minor repairs on the pump. However, after consulting the mechanic, they realized that the required maintenance is beyond their means.
Project Impact
The project will benefit about 350 people, including 225 children. In addition, guests and civil workers who visit the community will also benefit from the project.
Peace Corps Volunteer Directing Project
Mallory Pohlman
Comments
With the whole community of Kerr Werko relying so heavily on this one well, it is very important that the water supply be healthy and abundant. This simple project restores potable water to the village.
Mallory previously successfully completed the Kerr Ardo Well Repair Project – The Gambia.
Dollar Amount of Project
$525.00
Donations Collected to Date
$525.00
Needed
$0.00 – This project has been fully funded, through the generosity of The Soneva SLOW LIFE Trust as a part of their Clean Water Project initiative.
We encourage others to continue to donate using the Donate button below, and we will notify Peace Corps Volunteer Mallory Pohlman of your donation. Additional funds will be used to fund the next project by Mallory and/or those other PCVs in the country of service.
This project has been finished. To read about the conclusion of the project, CLICK HERE.