Security systems for hand pumps in rural areas of Malawi

This note describes three different systems to secure hand pump that have been developed in Malawi by Inter Aide and BASEDA-TIMMS – its local partner. It compares the three options that have been progressively upgraded and give technical details.

These systems are still under test and the team is doing its promotion toward communities. Indeed, remote villages can be in risk of vandalism as some spare parts can be expensive, and thieves are motivated by parallel and unofficial markets where stolen parts are resold.

Note developed by Mathieu Métois, Laurent Cochet, Olivier Célaries – Inter Aide September 2014

A similar system has been adapted in Sierra Leone for India Mark II pumps. See also the corresponding note below, written by Marc Giordan, Inter Aide’s former Director.