How One Rural District in Malawi Is Keeping 98% of Its Water Pumps Working

In Malawi, a working water pump can mean the difference between harmony and conflict.

It sounds dramatic—but here's what happens.

When one borehole breaks, people walk miles to the next closest pump. Tensions rise. Queues stretch into hours. Communities argue. Pressure builds—on relationships, on time, and on the remaining working pump, which often isn’t designed to handle double the demand.

And when that pump fails?

Women, men and children return to unsafe streams. Risking disease, losing time, and setting peace and progress back.

That’s why community-led water pump maintenance in Malawi isn’t just about access—it’s about sustainability, dignity, and peaceful living.

Why We Work to Keep Water Pumps Working

Through Madzi Alipo, we’ve seen first-hand what happens when water systems break down—and what’s possible when they’re repaired quickly and locally.

Over the years, we've restored over 400 pumps in T/A Somba. But we knew repairs weren't enough. We needed to build a system that would keep pumps working, long after we’d gone.

That’s when we developed the Madzi Database MAMS and call centre, a simple but powerful tool:

• We used to call every three months, to check functionality, now an automated text messaging system updates the data.

• Communities can report breakdowns

• Our team helps troubleshoot repairs

• The system stays updated and functional, compounding in value and detail over the years.

  
  

Thanks to this innovative tool, new Madzi Alipo designed durable parts and the Madzi Alipo field team teaching key water point maintenance, T/A Somba continues to maintain an unheard-of 98%+ functionality rate.

And we’re still improving.

Technology Meets Tradition and Keeps Water Points Working

Many organisations have dreamed of a Malawi-wide system that tracks water point functionality. With new tech, that’s becoming possible.

We’re partnering with global developers to test sensor-based solutions—tools that give real-time data on pump performance, so problems can be solved before people are pushed back to rivers and unsafe sources.

T/A Somba is the test bed. Our work is helping shape tools that could change how water systems are monitored across the continent.

What This Means for You

If you’re someone who:

💧 Cares about clean water lasting beyond a borehole and hand pump installation

💧 Loves seeing real impact

💧 Believes in community-led change

Then this is your chance to be part of something that works and is growing rapidly.

Three Ways to Get Involved in Long Term Water Provision Today

💧 Share the story. Water matters—and your voice can help raise awareness of water points breaking and needing ongoing maintenance, that often is overlooked.

💧 Fund expansion. Book a call with us if you are looking for a program to invest in.

💧 Live consciously. Conserve water. Because every action has a ripple effect.

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