Wheels for Wells in Zambia: 100 Mile Charity Ride Oct 12

Authors: Innocent Tembo and Stephen Davis

Goal: Supply a new bore hole well for the village of Mwanjabnthu, Zambia

Background: Due to severe drought in Zambia and southern Africa many wells (bore hole is the term used in Zambia) have either fallen in disrepair or need replacement. The local government has failed to adequately maintain, or repair bore holes that are no longer working properly.

Kate and I met Innocent Tembo at Lion Camp Safari in August of 2024. Innocent has been a trained guide and naturalist at the camp for the past 15 years. Kate’s good friend Michelle Deveraux has known Innocent for over 3 years and asked specifically for Innocent to be our guide during our visit. His knowledge and dedication are amazing. Lion Camp is in South Luangwa National Park in the northeast section of Zambia. Mwanjabanthu Village is on the border of the park and near the regional city of Mfuwe. Innocent and his family have lived in Mwanjanbanthu Village for over 50 years. Innocent and his wife have 4 children from ages 3 to 18. Their oldest daughter wants to become a pilot.

Many conversations were had about the impact of the drought on the animals in the park and what it is doing to those who live near the park. Striking a balance between what is needed for the natural environment and the people who live near the park is extremely difficult. Elephants in search of food during the drought are leaving the park and destroying crops in villages like Mwanjabanthu. Kate and Steve witnessed men on bikes stacked high with crops and vegetables having to travel many miles to bring food to areas that have lost food sources to the animals.

The government of Zambia realizes the amazing natural resource it has in its parks. Indeed 30% of the country is devoted to its natural parks. In comparison the US devotes about 5% of its country to national parks. While the Zambian government pushes for appropriate and successful protection of the animals and land, it has fallen short in providing adequate electricity and clean water for the people who work in those very parks. Indeed, the Kariba hydroelectric dam on the Zambezi River has been overtaxed and because of the drought it only producing a fraction of the electricity it was just 3 years ago. The average Zambian now only receives 4 hours of electricity a day. News articles report that the dam may cease to produce power in late September of this year….until rains come late in the year.

The tension of protecting the environment (whose wonders produce much needed tourist income for Zambians) and providing for the people is a clear and present problem. Zambia’s economy relies heavily on Copper Mining. Mining represents almost 18% of GDP. Eco tourism is a bright spot for Zambia who now hosts over 1,000,000 tourists a year, representing almost 3% of GDP (and growing). Sadly, though Zambia is one of the top 30 poorest countries in the world with average income per capita of $1,450 in 2023. 60% of Zambians live below the World Bank established poverty line.

Despite the poverty, the kindness and depth of culture of the people of Zambia drew Kate and Steve in immediately. Hearing of Innocent’s life story, of his family was at many times more compelling than the amazing animals seen during the day’s safari rides.

Proposal:

For approximately $2,000 we could supply a brand-new bore hole well for Mwanjabanthu.

Basic description of well:

Well will run to a depth of 150-200 ft. It will have a hand pump. See sample picture:

Company that might do the work:

Zacks and Company, a local bore hole drilling company. The Drilling and pump fitting takes 3-4 days. Innocent Tembo will oversee the project.

Who would own the well?

The Village.

Who could access the well? Are there any fees for residents for the water?

Anyone in the village. Each family will be asked to make a small periodic contribution for the minimally required annual maintenance.

What permits are required to drill the well?

No permits are required.

Who would oversee construction of the well?

Innocent Tembo will personally oversee the project.

Who would be responsible for maintaining the well?

See above.

What is the lead time to drill a well and how long would construction take?

It will take several months to schedule a bore hole drilling contractor.