Problem
The Ilmarba community is located near the Tanzanian border, between Imisgiyio and Olepolos. The village has had a borehole well, pump, and generator for some time, that approximately 1,500 people use. The issue Ilmarba faced was a unique one: elephants. The borehole actually provides water for the elephants as well as the community. Elephants learned that the sound of the pump meant water was available. When the pump stopped working (due to overheating in the pumphouse), upset elephants pulled up the pipes at the community water point and damaged the well system.
Solution
WILK rehabilitated the pump house with proper materials and ventilation, and the system was returned to working order. A community water point and latrines were constructed, pipes were replaced, and water is kept in the cattle trough at night for elephants to drink. WILK also completed a rainwater harvesting system with gutters, downspout, and water tanks for the local primary school. In addition, WILK helped build a fence around the school to keep the wildlife out.
Status:
Complete & Functioning
Impact
Water supply is more consistent now that the equipment is properly ventilated. Elephants don’t disturb the pipeline or waterpoint as frequently, since water is made available for them. To everyone’s relief, this has reduced the conflict between the community and the elephants.
Photos from Ilmarba
