Great progress has been made on identification and repair of boreholes around the Ekwendeni area. The local community help with the physical work of withdrawing the pipes in order to make possible the repair of the well. Usually it is the foot valve which needs to be replaced but these can be up to 50 metres underground.
Once the worn parts are replaced and the pump and pipes put back together again, the water flows and there is much rejoicing, especially from the women who no longer have to walk long distances to carry water home.
There are still many wells to locate and repair and a local team of maintenance staff has been appointed to undertake this ongoing work which will make life easier for so many families.