Japan gives Pump Aid K19.2 million grant

The Japanese Government has given Pump Aid Malawi a K19.2 million (about $114 970) grant to install 85 Elephant water pumps and train communities in pump maintenance in traditional authorities Wimbe and Santhe in Kasungu.

Speaking at a signing ceremony in Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe, on Tuesday, Japanese Ambassador Fujio Samukawa said his government is concerned about the suffering the people in the areas are experiencing due to lack of potable water.

“There are limited water sources compared to the population of 11 380 in the two areas, forcing them to fetch water from unreliable sources. Therefore, the assistance will ensure that potable water is accessible to all,” Samukawa said.

The ambassador commended Pump Aid for involving communities in the installation and maintenance of pumps to ensure ownership and sustainability.

Pump Aid Malawi country director John Kandulu said Kasungu is one of the least covered districts in water and sanitation initiatives.

Kandulu said women were covering 14 Kilometres daily to access safe water.

“The project will bring water close to the people by benefiting 8 500 poor and vulnerable people,” Kandulu said.

Since Pump Aid Malawi was established in 2008, it has installed over 2 500 Elephant pumps nationwide.