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A programme initiated by the then Centre for Social Research and Documentation of the
University of Zululand, involved the sinking of tube wells (primarily for domestic needs),
as well as shallow ring wells mainly for the irrigation of communal gardens. Most of the
wells have been sited in the coastal plain of Maputaland. Both types of wells have in situ --bucket
pumps and attached drainage pipes. Tube wells are generally 8 - 20 m deep, with
ring wells 1 - 8 m deep. Well sinking is a co-operative venture with the individual
customer paying for materials and installation time. The customer is also expected to
provide unskilled labour. The Vonder drilling rig (imported from Zimbabwe), is owned by
a local farmers' co-operative situated at KwaNgwanase.
The Rural Water Trust, PO Box 10823, Marine Parade, 4056, has concel)trated on tube
wells usually 4 - 12 m deep. The tube wells are fitted with handpumps and are often
located near schools. The wells are usually installed together with 600 f UV-resistant
polyethylene storage tanks, where simple flocculation and chlorination processes are
undertaken. Most of the tube wells have been sited in the northern coastal plain and areas
further inland near Richards Bay; in the Valley Trust area, and in the environs of Adams
Mission south of Durban. The Trust pays the costs, including installation, of all the
equipment. Residents however, are expected to provide self-help labour during the
installation process. The Trust also supplies the necessary chemicals, although in future,
residents will be required to purchase their own chemicals. The staff of schools close to
the tube wells are responsible for dosing the water.
11.10 Groundwater equipment
The Borehole Water Association of Southern Africa maintains a list of South African
manufacturers or suppliers ofnumerous items ofgroundwater equipment, including drilling
rigs and pumps. Several groundwater and geotechnical consulting firms, plus drilling and
installation contractors are also listed. The list is periodically updated and is printed from
time-ta-time in the Borehole Water Journal, which is published by the Association. The
Directorate of Soil Conservation and Drilling Services can also be approached for advice
in terms of equipment and drilling contractors. The Groundwater Association of KwaZulu­
Natal, PO Box 52042, Berea Road, 4007, is a further source of information.