The effectiveness of the SOMAP model to sustain rural water supply in Zambia: A case of Chongwe district

Abstract

This study explored the effectiveness of the Sustainable Operation and Maintenance Project (SOMAP) model implement in six rural districts of Zambia. This study targeted Chongwe district in Lusaka Province. The key findings of the study showed that the communities did not regularly contribute towards maintenance of hand pumps. The spare parts outlet did not have spare parts available all the time. There were no sub-district structures under the District Council to monitor and manage toolkits. Some communities were experiencing problems with inappropriate hand pumps installed. In hilly terrain, hand pumps were too stiff to operate. Water quality in some cases was poor rusty water resulting from corroded galvanised iron pipes used. Communities were reactive; they did not practice preventive maintenance such as basic greasing of the chains on the hand pumps.