Otho Abwao

Otho Abwao, Kenya is the location of EWB-UC’s first official project, begun in 2007. The committee traveled to the community at that time to assess possible solutions to a water distribution problem. A borehole well existed, drilled by the government in the mid-1990’s, but most people had to travel great distances to reach it. The foot pump installed in the well was also very difficult to operate. The next two years were spent in design and fundraising efforts. In 2009, EWB-UC successfully implemented its first project. This project saw the design and construction of a complete water distribution system in the community, fed by the local borehole well. A solar-powered pump draws water from the well and pumps it into two concrete storage tanks slightly uphill from the well. Water may then flow from these tanks, through underground piping, to five different distribution points throughout the community. EWB-UC worked closely with the community throughout the process to ensure the end solution adequately met the community’s needs in ways that residents could understand and properly operate. The system has proved to be an excellent success, as subsequent health surveys have indicated a substantial drop in the number of outbreaks of water-borne diseases since the installation of the system.

Right now in the Otho Abwao Project

The Otho Abwao committee is maintaining contact with the village in order to actively monitor the water system for issues and discover possible improvements for future designs. The group recently learned that a non-government organization from the Netherlands has completed the construction of two classrooms and a new nursery school building at the local primary school since EWB-UC had last been to the village, in 2010. The addition of two new classrooms to the community’s primary school is also nearing completion thanks to government funding. EWB-UC is currently discussing areas of more urgent need with the community to determine where its efforts can be best applied. The discussion is currently focused on possible modifications/improvements to the water distribution system.