Location
Payuka, Oti Prefecture, Savanes Region, Togo
Community Description
Payuka is a small village situated in Togo’s northernmost region, 10 km northeast of the regional capital of Mango. The climate is characterized by a short rainy season and an extended dry season, lasting from November until May.
There are approximately 475 people who live in the community, which is made up of primarily farmers and animal herders.
Problem Addressed
Water sources in the community are scarce, and during the extended dry season, the two wells in the community-run dry. Therefore, community members are forced to search for water outside the village.
The source of water where the people search is at the river located several miles away. This burden is typically left for the women of the community, leaving them little time to engage in other activities. Also, river water is not safe for consumption.
The community has seen the effects of intestinal illness and dehydration through diarrhea, and other water-borne diseases.
Project Description
This project is to build a well in the center of the most populated neighborhood of Payuka.
Under the direction of the Village Water Committee, a local technician will dig down approximately 10 meters. Then, dynamite will be used to uncover the remaining 5-7 meters.
The well will be lined. It will have a metal cover with a lock, protecting it from outside contamination.
Water will be drawn using a bucket pulley system. There will be a well apron and enclosure built, with a trough handling all the runoff water.
Water Charity is providing funds for the materials in collaboration with the Peace Corps Partnership Program.
The community will provide the manual labor, and food and lodging for the technician.
Project Impact
The project will serve the entire community of 475 people.
Project Director
The project is being implemented under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Matthew Houser
Comments
This project will provide the community with its first clean, sustainable source of drinking water, considerably reducing the incidence of water-borne diseases.
This project has been finished. To read about the conclusion of the project, CLICK HERE.