Kwa Maji CBO Well Project
Project Snapshot
Country: Kenya
GPS Coordinates:
Latitude 0.006667
Longitude 34.737033
Impact:
Total Served: 1500
Status: On Hold (?)
Completion Date (or estimate): 09/30/2010
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The community gathers their water from a Sosiani (water pool) which is seasonal and is especially scarce during January, February and December. This source cannot not serve the whole community and so severe rationing is in place. It is also not a safe source of water, often contaminated by nearby latrines and other human activities.
This new well will serve up to 1,500 people according to our partner.
Latest Update:
9/8/2010 - Drilling Underway
8/18/2010 - Sanitation and Hygiene Training - Picture Added
Project Photos
Recent Project Updates
01/20/2011: Kwa Maji Drilling Fails
No one is more disappointed than the community in Kwa Maji...
After taking a risk and drilling in an area the surveyor suspected only moderate chance of finding water, our implementing partner was initially excited when water was found at about 21m below ground. They began the work to prepare the cap and pump as usual. But, unfortunately upon their return the next day, the well was dry. The water had gone.
The team recalled the surveyor and together they determined it is unlikely drilling again will bring about a different result. No one wanted that news.
The next step for the team is to meet with the community and determine if they are willing to perhaps consider rain catchment as an alternative. In this area of Kenya, rains do come. There could be a good supply if the project is implemented correctly.
We'll reassess too and work to find the funds needed to cover those lost to the failed drilling.
It's not a result anyone wanted and it proves once again that this work is hard and setbacks are common. Let's hope with the people of Kwa Maji that a good solution can be found.
Sponsors
Country Details
Kenya
- Population: 39.8 Million
- Lacking clean water: 43%
- Below poverty line: 50%
- Climate: Varies from tropical along coast to arid in interior
- Languages: English (official), Kiswahili (official), numerous indigenous languages
- Ethnic Groups:Kikuyu 22%, Luhya 14%, Luo 13%, Kalenjin 12%, Kamba 11%, Kisii 6%, Meru 6%, other African 15%, non-African (Asian, European, and Arab) 1%
- Life Expectancy: 57 years
- Infant Mortality Rate: 55 deaths per 1000 live births
Partner Profile
Bridge Water Project
BWP staff and crew were originally trained by David Hansen, a retired water engineer from California. David visited Kenya, saw a need, and then recruited and organized this team. He got them equipment and trained them how to use it. He also trained them how to manage their new business.
Today they are drilling at least one well per week. They work in communities they know and help mobilize them. They are able to return and fix broken parts. They are committed to seeing their own people changed when clean water comes.
