Ernst Peyer Foundation of Switzerland Supports Handpump Mechanics in Ghana with New Tool-Sets And Motorbikes
As part of the comprehensive capacity building package for handpump sustainability in the Atiwa East and West Districts, in the Eastern Region of Ghana, sponsored by Ernst Peyer Foundation of Switzerland, the newly trained Handpump Mechanics, Messrs Godfred Yaw Ofori and McBest Frempong Ofori were each presented with a new set of Handpump Mechanics Tools, and a brand new motorbike.
This was part of the tooling component of the handpump sustainability capacity building intervention intended to facilitate their work by improving the mobility of the trained Handpump Mechanics as well as their preparedness to undertake all manner of repairs and maintenance works on the three main types of standardized handpumps in the two districts (see pie chart below – as at September, 2021).
The Honourable Chief Executive of Atiwa East District Assembly, Kwabena Panin Nkansah, presented certificates of proficiency to the two newly trained Handpump Mechanics at an impressive ceremony held in the conference room of the District Assembly on October 22, 2021.
The Handpump Mechanics were also presented with Business Cards, Name Tags, Working Tools, and Motorbikes as part of the overall package.
Hon. Kwabena Panin Nkansah (L) and Hon. Presiding Member presenting the Tools and Motorbikes to Messrs Godfred Yaw Ofori and McBest Frempong Ofori after the closing ceremony
The two new motorbikes were presented to the newly trained Handpump Mechanics
This support would improve communities’ access to more responsive, affordable, and reliable Handpump Mechanic services for continuous and sustainable rural water supply in the Atiwa East District and beyond.
The consultant per the contract had since transitioned into the 6-month coaching phase during which he would provide remote coaching support to the newly trained Handpump Mechanics on demand or otherwise.
CDPI/C-WASH would also continue in its role of inspiring, motivating, guiding and monitoring the work of the newly trained Handpump Mechanics and periodically give feedback to the Ernst Peyer Foundation of Switzerland.
A major lesson learnt is the importance of networking and collaboration by the Handpump Mechanics with Honourable Assembly members, the District Assembly, Chiefs, WATSAN Chairmen, Environmental Health Assistants, and Handpump Spare Parts Dealers/Warehouses. Building credibility with communities and not charging too much for handpump maintenance and repair works would have positive spin-offs for the work of the Handpump Mechanics.
