Good Works

In May 2024, Good Works received a request for funds to deepen an existing borehole well, provide a reserve water tank and help install an irrigation system in Zimbabwe. The family was facing water scarcity due to an ongoing drought, resulting in food insecurity. With the ability to access more water, they anticipated being able to irrigate their farm as well as supply water to members of the village.

Now that the work has been completed, the farm is seeing excellent results, with bountiful crops and water for the farmers and their community.

From Douglas Kachilima (a farmer in Zimbabwe):

“We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the support provided by Good Works for our borehole deepening project. The funds availed to us have been instrumental in transforming our farming endeavors and improving access to clean water for our family and village.

“Our initial plan was to deepen the borehole (from 40 meters [131 feet] to 80 meters [262 feet]), install additional panels for our 0.75 HP pump, reserve tank and stand installation, sprinkler irrigation installation and casing for the well. Upon assessing our water needs for commercial farming, we realized that our existing 0.75 HP pump (which pumps 1,700 liters per hour) would not be sufficient. We decided to upgrade to a 2HP pump that can pump 6,000 liters per hour and has the ability to supply eight sprinklers.

“We initiated corn farming, aiming to irrigate our crops. The pump is working effectively, and we are currently establishing vegetable gardens and expanding the fruit tree orchard, which now has 216 different fruit trees.

“The abundant water supply has also brought new opportunities; a company involved in contract farming for mangetout (French for ‘eat all’ or specially snow peas) and sugar snaps for export to Europe has considered partnering with us pending fulfillment of certain requirements, such as fencing and drip irrigation. This development has the potential to further our farming endeavors and economic prospects.

“Our next step is to install a pressure tank, pressure gauge and switch for automatic pump control, enabling the pump to switch on and off when taps are turned on.

“My family and community appreciate the support Good Works gave us. Your contribution has made an impact on our community.”