​Ilmarba Community Borehole Rehabilitation Project:
Problem: The community of Ilmarba is located near the Tanzanian border, in between two of our other projects, 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 rather unique one: elephants came and damaged the well system. The borehole actually provides water for the elephants as well, and they have learned that the sound of the pump means there is water. When the pump stopped, the elephants became upset and pulled up the pipes and the community water point looking for water. The problem was overheating in the pump house.

Solution: WILK rehabilitate 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 replaces and the community agreed to keep water 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 to build a fence around the school, to keep the wildlife out!

Status: Complete

Impact:  Water supply is more consistent since the equipment is properly ventilated and elephants no longer disturb the pipeline or waterpoint as frequently since water is made available for them. This has greatly reduced the conflict between the community and the elephants, to everyone’s relief!