The lack of fresh water is the # 1 cause of disease and death in the communities of Bulike and Buluya. There is actually plenty of water in both communities, but it’s 100-200 feet below ground! And getting to it typically costs about $7,000.
We’ve been so blessed with the arrival of the water well drilling rig! Having our own rig allows us to drill a well for about $2,300. And, like when we got the tractor a couple of years ago, this kind of equipment is a game changer.
I put together an update regarding our fresh water ministry, including our key achievements, challenges, and plans for this year.
Achievements (Oct 2015-March 2016)
- UCSS received a water well drilling rig from American friends: This brought hope for clean and fresh water, not only in Bulike community but also other areas of the country.
- The rig has been tested and has already drilled three boreholes in Inuula, Nabisiki, and Kimbaya communities. Two of the boreholes brought water and hand pumps were installed. The third one did not bring water at all. Surveyors were consulted concerning this issue and advised that an air compressor was needed to be able to dig further because the area had a low water level.
- UCSS collaborated with other organizations such as World Vision and Red Cross to explore possibilities of working together in drilling and maintaining boreholes.
- UCSS has appointed a dedicated community team to oversee water well drilling in the area and to oversee repairing of water wells that broke down.
- The water well team is working together with the residents of the communities and have come to an agreement that the water well drilling will be done as a joint partnership: UCSS will contribute to the drilling costs, pipes, and other supplies needed, and the community will facilitate the installation and construction costs.
Challenges
- Lack of air compressor: At the time of drilling the first water wells, there was no compressor but we have received some funding for the purchase of a compressor although they are priced at a higher price as opposed to the amount of funds available. We also need an additional $10,000 to ship the air compressor from Houston TX to Uganda.
- Expensive equipment needed to build water wells.
- Lack of funds from the community.
- Deep water levels in wide area ranges.
- Limited technical and skilled labor to provide ready expertise.
Future Plans
- There is need to acquire a truck to carry the water drilling rig and the compressor if drilling is to be done in areas beyond Bulike.
- We’d like to drill at least four water wells per month (two by UCSS and two paid for by the community) in Bulike and Buluya.
If God is moving you to support this ministry, there are three things you can do now:
- Make a donation
- Request to have me speak to your church or group
- Ask how you can get involved.
Thank you for all your prayers and support!
Blessings,