Innovation and lessons learnt in design and pilot implementation of clay-bodied bio-sand filters in Niger

In 2015, only 58% of the rural population of Niger had access to a potable water supply and 11% had access to improved sanitation facilities (WHO/UNICEF, 2015). To reduce diarrhoea related diseases caused by use of contaminated water sources, Samaritan’s Purse (SP) embarked on household water treatment using Bio-sand filters (BSF). The installation of the BSF typically requires cement which is too expensive for the communities to buy. The purpose of this research was to explore how the BSF could be constructed using clay pots which will create livelihood programs, sustainability and transfer of knowledge using appropriate local technology. The clay-bodied BSFs were installed at a cost of less than $10 and had a tested flow rate of 0.42 l/min. The research concludes that clay-bodied BSF has potential to ensure improved sustainable water supply and income for potters.