By Andrew Nelson | Project Leadership
Muraho!
A lot has happened since our last update! In past four months, we have completed final designs of all three rainwater catchment systems! These designs passed through Engineers Without Borders ineternal and external reviews with flying colors, and we are all set to implement them this summer!
As a reminder, we have recently partnered with a locally-based non-governmental organization known as Village Makeover (VMO) to provide and improve water, hygiene, sanitation, and catchment systems to the Cyanika community, which is located in Northern Rwanda. Village Makeover and has worked side by side with EWB-USA CU to initiate a new project between the Cyanika community, Village Makeover and EWB-USA CU, and we are very excited to be involved!
Although the details of each site vary slightly, the general idea of each structure is the same. Each system utilizes a roof to capture rainwater during the two local rainy seasons. The roof rests upon several columns which are built on a concrete and rubble foundation. The runoff water from the roof is diverted though a series of pipes, including a substantial first-flush system to remove contaminates, and into one of several 10,000L storage tanks, which are regularly cleaned and provide easy access to potable water. All materials and construction tools are locally sourced, and the community will be heavily involved in both the construction and maintenance of the systems.
EWB-CU is preparing to send seven students to county to work on the implementation of these systems, which will provide clean water year-round to the at risk members of several villages within the Cyanika community. As always, we are very grateful for your continued support and involvement through Global Giving. Thanks! Please feel free send any questions or comments to EWBRwanda@gmail.com, and make sure to check our website at http://www.colorado.edu/engineering/ewb/rwanda!
Sincerely,
The EWB-CU Rwanda Program
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