20.06.2025
Repairing pumps and revitalizing community-led water committees
problem & solution
In the Machaze district, existing water points often had broken pumps due to poor maintenance and lack of enclosure, forcing women and girls mainly to walk long distances for water. The project initially aimed for a broader approach, including latrine construction and widespread WASH (water, hygiene, and sanitation) sensitization. However, upon starting, new actors in the same region (Red Cross, Pro-Water) were found to be heavily involved in WASH sensitization, school programmes, and latrine construction but not addressing broken water infrastructure.
To avoid duplication and address the most pressing need identified, the project shifted focus: The solution was to prioritize crucial pump repairs as well as training water management committees to ensure sustainable maintenance and promote community ownership.
the experience
Beginning with a reassessment due to new actors already addressing sensitization, the project adapted its focus to address the critical need for water access through pump repairs. A budget adjustment was approved to enable this shift and acquire crucial transport like a motorcycle.
Key steps taken included repairing 6 water pumps and installing 50 Tip-Tap handwashing systems in schools but also conducting sensitization campaigns. For example, theater groups were trained to disseminate WASH messages creatively.
An essential success element was the training of 77 new members (45 men and 32 women) of the water management committees to ensure sustainability. The training specifically covered topics such as maintenance, community contributions, and conflict management. Promoting the active participation of women and strengthening their involvement in community decisions was crucial, as they are traditionally in charge of household water management.
Close coordination with partners like SDPI (Districtal Infrastructure Services), Red Cross, and Pro-Water (consultancy firm) ensured synergy and avoided duplication. In addition, the ongoing exchange with horizont3000 enabled monitoring, strategic guidance, and partner support.
Challenges
- Logistical difficulties due to poor access roads.
- Lack of economies of scale and spare parts unavailability for certain pumps.
- Limited community capacity for financial contributions towards maintenance.
- Long-lasting drought impacting water availability and participation.
- Technical difficulties that prevented repair, like broken pipes.
Impact
- Enhanced community capacity and ownership for water source management.
- Strengthened gender equality by promoting women's participation and reducing their burden.
- Reduced distances for water collection, benefiting especially women and girls.
- Improved access to drinking water for over 101,000 people, improving health and reducing diseases related to poor water.
Lessons Learned
- Forming and training water management committees strengthens sustainability.
- Improving water access has a significant impact on women and girls, not only physically but also freeing up more time to participate in community decision-making.
- Choosing pumps with local spare parts/technical support is crucial for sustainability.
- Project-owned transport is essential for reaching remote communities.
