Recently, work has been conducted to replace the lost pump and borehole, and experience gained during our previous attempt will ensure a more effectively monitored and maintained system after the installation is complete. Following drilling of a new borehole, the image below shows a flushing exercise conducted to remove mud, sand, cement and other debris. Next, a pumping test was conducted to determine the capacity in cubic metres per hour of the well; this allows the construction team to determine the size and capacity of the pump required to complete the well.
Currently, the project is nearly complete; the pipelines, reservoir, bore hole and well head are all installed and tested – as of June this year the final stage, fitting the pump, is all that remains before the Njao villagers once again benefit from a regular supply of fresh, clean water.

Speaking to the villagers on Njao, our Chief Operations Officer Roly Cronshaw asked what difference they felt fresh running water would make to them. Their response made it clear that with their current, and limited, supply they did not have enough clean water for cooking, washing, drinking or sustaining their livestock; currently they are forced to wash in the sea, and survive on limited rations. With a fresh supply more readily available, not only will the above problems be prevented but the villagers will be more productive; the men will be free to fish in the morning and spend afternoons or evenings helping with family activities, instead of dedicating an entire afternoon to fetching water. In addition, crops and livestock will benefit, and the improved sanitation can help prevent disease from spreading.