With almost 500 water wells installed by late 2023, WWFA is expert in establishing these efficient water sources in rural, hard-to-reach areas in Africa.
Early on, we learned that the technology used must involve a simple pump system so we can teach a team of villagers how to maintain and repair the equipment. The technology must match the maintenance capacity of the locals in order to ensure sustainability.
The initial cost of a well does not only include the raw materials (e.g., pipes, pump mechanism, foundation, etc) but also depends on drilling factors such as location of the well and the depth to reach water. Further included in the package is maintenance training as well as educational classes on hygiene and sanitation.
Our wells last 20 years and more because – from the moment we arrive in a village – the residents are included in the well-development process. We work with the leaders of each community and incorporate our process with their normal governing system, this way they have buy-in and a voice in what happens. Further, they appoint a 10-person Community-Based Management committee from each village who learn how to maintain the water pump, organize and assign local responsibilities, and ensure hygiene/sanitation practices. WWFA also requires that 5-6 women be represented on the village water committee.
We invite you to further explore each of these factors that go into water well installation: