Household pumps from the informal sector

The development of two pumps, the rope­washer and the treadle pump, is described. The pumps can be made by the informal artisan sector and are suitable for household use in domestic supply and irrigation. The rope-washer pump is cheap, easy to operate and maintain, can lift water from depths in excess of 20m and up to 5m overhead. The treadle pump can raise water from depths of up to 6m and up to 20m above itself. Dissemination of the technology has already started in Zimbabwe and initial results are encouraging. A strategy for further dissemination is outlined.