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  Private Sector Participation In Low Cost Water Well Drilling
 

R Number:  R7126
Contractor:  Cranfield University at Silsoe
Dates:          1 July 1999 to 30 June 2001
The design, testing and documentation of a new low-cost water well drilling rig suitable for drilling in alluvial formations and Basement regolith in Africa; the manufacture of the rig in Africa; and the uptake and use of the rig by small contractors.

Executive Summary
Objectives

The purpose of the project is to design a new low-cost water well drilling rig, and bring about its manufacture in Africa and its uptake by small contractors. The outputs of the project are (a) a designed, tested and documented low-cost drilling rig, (b) the manufacture of the rig in at least one country in sub-Saharan Africa, (c) the uptake of the rig by local contractors, and their training in its use. Although the project depends on the success of the drilling technology, the real proof of project success will be the stimulation of local manufacturing and contractor businesses, and through them the long term, sustainable provision of water at an affordable price to consumers.

Methodology

  • Prototype design and testing of the rig in UK
  • Initial needs assessment and resource assessment
  • Initial studies of manufacturing sector
  • Establish stakeholder/interest group in-country
  • Trials in Uganda through existing community water supply programme
  • Identification and analysis of private sector partners
  • Trials in small farmer sector in Uganda
  • Establishment of manufacturing capability in-country
  • Capacity building and equipping of a range of private sector contractors
  • Identification of community/farmer needs, and means of linking to private sector
  • Wide promotion of equipment and private sector participation
    • Results

    Prototype design almost complete (March 1999)
    Extensive stakeholder/interest group established in Uganda
    Tripartite agreement signed with national and district Governments for phase I trials

    Conclusions

    Interim conclusions:

  • extensive interest in project concept, from Government (national and district), community water and agricultural sectors, NGOs, manufacturing industry, private contractors, donors
  • timely project in relation to Government decentralisation and privatisation policies
  • major challenge may be institutional resistance to changes which are part of Government policy
  • affordability of water supplies provided through this mechanism will be crucial
  • in-built mechanisms for regulation of private sector will be essential
    • Further Information
    Contact Details for Further Information
    Dr Richard C Carter
    Project Manager
    Cranfield University at Silsoe
    Silsoe
    Bedford
    MK45 4DT

    Tel: 01525 863297 (direct line)
    Tel: 01525 863291 (Carolyn King, Secretary)
    Fax: 01525 863300
    Email: r.c.carter@cranfield.ac.uk