This guide supports borehole rehabilitation and maintenance projects in Kenya. Use it to prepare the information needed for a site-specific discussion and to compare proposed work on a consistent basis.
Define the requirement before selecting the solution
Compare measurements under similar operating conditions. A change in tank demand or solar input can look like a borehole problem; confirm the supply, pump and pipeline conditions before assigning a cause.
The information to collect
Investigate falling performance before replacing major equipment or drilling again. Rehabilitation starts by separating source, construction, pump, power and pipeline problems using the available records and measured conditions.
- Previous yield tests, water levels and equipment records
- The date and pattern of reduced flow, sand, noise or repeated trips
- Current electricity or solar controller readings
- Maintenance history and changes in surrounding water demand
A practical review process
First, name the intended outcome and the person responsible for approving the design or scope. Gather the existing site records and mark anything that is an estimate. Ask the provider to explain which missing measurements could change the recommended equipment or work.
Next, compare the proposed deliverables with the actual requirement. Keep the quotation, specification and acceptance criteria together. If the design changes after assessment or testing, record what changed and approve the revised scope before proceeding.
Avoid a misleading comparison
There is no universal cleaning method and no guaranteed recovery percentage. The proposed method must suit the borehole materials, suspected obstruction and condition. Uncontrolled treatment can damage a source.
Access, pump removal, inspection, specialist cleaning, disposal, replacement components and verification testing affect rehabilitation cost.
Check the result at handover
Compare before-and-after discharge and water levels under documented conditions. Keep the work record and agree on monitoring that can identify a future decline early.
Adapt the brief to your site and audience
A household may prioritise simple operation and reserve supply. A school or NGO may need operator training, beneficiary or occupancy information and procurement records. A farm needs its irrigation or livestock demand defined. A diaspora-funded project also needs clear local access and remote approval responsibilities.
Continue with borehole rehabilitation and maintenance, county planning guidance and a project enquiry.
Does this guide replace a site assessment?
No. It is a planning checklist. Final engineering, water-use decisions and equipment selection depend on measured conditions and the responsible professionals’ assessment.
What should I send when requesting a quote?
Start with your Kenyan site location, intended use and existing records. For this service, prioritise previous yield tests, water levels and equipment records and the date and pattern of reduced flow, sand, noise or repeated trips.