*Julie Martel, President of the Board of the REVE Kandale Foundation
The Communiqué is delighted to host Julie Martel for this issue. She has first hand knowledge of what is happening in Kandale. So without further delay, Julie Martel.
"I am delighted to pen this Communiqué on the ground in Kandale amidst the bustle of construction for the long awaited solar powered water system. After I landed in Kinshasa, Colette and I gathered the final supplies needed. We made a delightful visit to the fabric market. When ready, we headed off at the crack of dawn. Fellow travelers included James Kabunga. the project supervisor from Uganda, the construction manager from Kinshasa and the owner of the company that drilled the well last year, as well as specialists in plumbing, soldering and building.
The smooth sailing from Kinshasa to Kikwit and on to Kandale was a good omen for the trip. Our early arrival took everyone in Kandale by surprise, but they soon organized their usual warm greetings replete with singing and dancing.
Fencing for solar panels. Poles to support the solar panels. Installing the panels.
Everyone was anxious to jump into the work. Within an hour of arrival preparations for the next day were launched. Construction leaders were assessing the site, confirming specifications and preparing equipment. There had been a village-wide effort to collect sand and stones needed for construction. Women said how happy they were to help since they would be relieved of lugging water out of the steep valley. As a symbol of their gratefulness, the women’s choir arrived in church carrying stones on their heads.
Early pump house. Pump House. Cistern Area. Inserting pump.
Monday morning work started early on a range of tasks to construct the multiple components needed. One group started digging holes to build stands for mounting the solar panels. The stands were carefully constructed to hold panels at the optimal angle for the site. Within a week the solar array was fully mounted and fenced in. The pump house containing the well was a busy place. As it was constructed the temporary pump was removed and the new stronger pump was inserted. A foundation for the two large cisterns was started. A small house will hold the counter where people will purchase their water and fill their containers.
Water flowing. Cistern House. James monitoring water.
We were thrilled with a successful test hook-up of the system. Water flowed once again and we saw the panels and pump could supply power to pump water at a fast rate. The biggest impediment to the progress of the water project ironically, has been water. We have been reminded on a daily basis that the rainy season is in full swing. At this rate we look forward to the system being open for business in the coming weeks. A million thanks from everyone in Kandale for all those who have supported this effort. The joy is palpable."
The Construction Crew
Thank you Julie, Colette, and James for all your hard work in Kandale. It is apparent that change has been happening very fast and we hope to have another update very soon.
