An Urgent And Desperate Need For Clean Water In Africa

For the traditional African, health is not just about the proper functioning of bodily organs. Good health for the African consists of mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional stability for oneself, family members, and community.

Less than half of Africa’s citizens (52%) – some 615 million people – have access to the healthcare they need, the continent’s quality of health services is generally poor and the family planning needs of half the continent’s women and girls are unmet.

Diarrhea is a major cause of death due to the parasites in the water.

In East Africa, 75% of the population is under age 25 due to lack of disease control.

Africans walk 3 miles each way every day to get clean water. 

They often wait hours for a turn at the well.

Deep water wells of at least 1,000 feet are needed to provide parasite free water. 

Once dug, a well like this requires $300 to cap off with a hand pump so many villages can share and have access to clean water.

Estimated Costs For Drilling A 1,000 Foot Deep Well = $8,405

Hydrogeological Survey = $225

Required before any digging begins to locate the aquifer and avoid a dry well.

Drilling & Casing = $6,885

Covers the mobilization of machinery, actual sinking of the well, and PVC/metallic casing to keep the well from collapsing.

Test Pumping & Water Analysis = $120

Testing the water yield and analyzing its chemical composition to ensure the well is safe and can adequately sustain the needs of the community.

Pump & Tower Installation = $775

Submersible pump, piping, and water tank installation depending on storage and power preference. 

Regulatory Costs & Permits = $400

Before digging starts permits from the Water Resources Authority (WRA) and County authorities are required. Permitting, licensing, and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) fees vary depending on the exact classification of the borehole.

Total Costs For Drilling & Capping A 1,000 Foot Well = $8,405

2384