Conclusion of Misomali Borehole Project – Malawi

This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Patrick Phillips. To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.

The project was to restore the borehole in Misomali to full functionality.

Patrick reports:

I am pleased to inform you of the successful completion of the Misomali Village borehole project! The project was a joint collaboration between the district water office, our local Health Surveillance Assistant, and our local Community Development Assistant.

The project consisted of a five-day training for the twelve elected village borehole committee members. The first day of training addressed health-related issues including the importance of clean water, the prevention of waterborne illnesses, and proper sanitation.

The second day focused on community leadership and specifically, strong leadership within the borehole committee itself. Topics included money management as well as ways to generate revenue to cover ongoing maintenance costs.

The final three days of the training focused on restoring the borehole itself as a practical exercise. The pump was dismantled and the participants were taught extensively about all the various parts and how they work together.

The pump was successfully reassembled with recently purchased replacement parts and the participants learned how to solve the most common problems affecting boreholes in a timely and efficient manner.

Patrick reports on the outcome: The final outcome of this project has been a great success. Misomali village not only has a functioning borehole, but also a well-trained and competent borehole committee that is capable of properly managing our borehole and responding to any challenges that may arise. As long as we receive adequate rain to ensure a high water table, Misomali Village’s water problems should remain stable for the foreseeable future.

It is with sincere gratitude that we thank you for all the assistance you have provided to our community here in Misomali.

We, in turn, wish to thank Patrick for completing this outstanding project. We also would like to again thank James Berg, who provided the funding in the name of the Thomas Ratterman Family: Tom, Jane, Chris and Dan.