Project Descriptions

Wells

We install drilled wells, with a field annular space to protect from contaminated ground water infiltration. The installation of a hand pump prevents the contamination that occurs from using a rope and bucket method. The well is shocked immediately after drilling, and then shocked again after pump installation to ensure that no contamination from the drilling process remains in the well. Each well has a designated caretaker, and in Liberia the pumps are safeguarded with a security jacket. We encourage regular drawing times to be established so that the pump remains locked and protected outside of those times. This means the caretaker has to attend to the pump at each of those designated times, which helps promote a system of regularity. For Liberia, the caretaker, technician and chief are given an annual calendar, with instructions for their role for the well. They are given Lifewater Liberia’s phone number if they need help for repairs or anything else. We are moving towards annual assessments as a type of insurance, where there would water testing and rechlorination on an annual basis. 

Tank catchment

This is an encouraging program, particularly in Kenya, where groups of women in special need form a committee, to work towards providing a water storage tank and catchment system for all the members within the group. They save money to purchase the tank, creating a high sense of ownership of the tank, and we come alongside them to help support their initiative. We provide the tank and show them how to attach it to their roof, which must be corrogated. They provide the cement pad and organize the group to provide the rest. This is particularly useful in Kenya where drilling is difficult in the mountains. The water stored will cover the household during periods of dry times where there is no rain. The tank is used by a small number of people, usually about 7 people per family. Depending on the size of the tank, it serves the family, extended family and sometimes even the local neighbours. The tanks are installed in homes, churches, orphanages and community centers.

Pump Rehabilitation

We rehabilitate a pump when there are previously drilled wells that have a functional borehole, but the pump is so broken it has to be totally replaced. The well and the well pad are then restored to safe working condition.

Pump Repair

A hand pump is comprised of several working mechanical parts, so depending on the frequency of use repairs will be needed as a routine matter of course. Lifewater is notified by the need for repairs through different ways, which will influence the efficiency and wait time for the repair. We are currently trying to increase the efficiency of this system. Our system of contact and repairing in Liberia is succeeding, our goal is to replicate this in Haiti.

Health & Hygiene

With each well project, when the well is installed a half day workshop is held to cover the sources of disease, disease transmission and how to reduce it, and how to care for their water and environment. We also teach them how to make clean oral rehydration solution, which is very useful in cases of diarrhea, especially with young children. This year we also gave COVID instructions.

Latrines

Presently we are working on a minimal scale to build to washrooms in schools in Kenya. Latrines are quite expensive. It is a pour-flush structure, with a water tank to use as a reservoir. The size of the washroom varies according to need. Handwashing stations are installed in every washroom.