Performance evaluation of handpumps used in UNICEF projects

This technical study evaluates the performance of handpumps used in UNICEF projects in four African countries: Burkina Faso, Mali, Nigeria, and Benin. Of the four types of pumps used, the INDIA Mk II Mk III, the UPM and the Vergnet, the report concludes that the India Mk II, used for many years, has good results but that the UPM is a better choice for deep wells of 45 m or more. The report emphasizes the need for a local procurement policy to involve local communities in the production of handpumps and spare parts, installation, maintenance, and technical training. It also recommends that UNICEF should include the refurbishing of old boreholes in its projects. The bulk of this study contains detailed reports from each of the four countries outlining country information; UNICEF programmes; field trip impressions; operating conditions, hydrogeology and water quality, usage, spare part distribution, and maintenance; and conclusions and recommendations. There is also a detailed pump performance summary distinguishing between shallow and deep well installations and between aggressive and non-aggressive water, using criteria such as ease of installation and repair, corrosion and abrasion resistance, cost and after sales service. The study concludes that a good handpump cannot solve a badly designed or executed project; that the choice of handpump should depend on the availability of spare parts and after sales service; that it is more practical to choose handpumps known to area mechanics and which have a support structure already in place; that corrosion resistance is essential for handpumps used in aggressive water; and that handpumps are not efficient for deep installations. It recommends that the India Mk II, and in future the Mk III, be retained for use in West Africa and that UNICEF project managers coordinate and share valuable experiences gained in various situations.