Engineering that saves lives in Malawi
Laureen Banda was trained as Area Pump Mechanic by Pump Aid Beyond Water in August 2023. The training transformed her into a successful businesswoman and change maker in her home Area of Traditional Authority Ndume in Kasungu District. Celebrate Women in Engineering in Malawi.
“I use the advanced skills acquired from Pump Aid Beyond Water trainings in repairing and maintaining community water points, including those in various Child Based Care Centres (CBCCs) and Primary Schools, as a way of promoting good health and hygiene among children, but also education. As a mother who is an engineer, I also feel proud of my work as it directly supports the school feeding programmes in a society where the larger community also benefits a lot from drinking safe and clean water.” Laureen says.
Within 11 months of working as an Area Pump Mechanic, Laureen’s personal life and that of her family greatly improved. “From my earnings a community hand pump engineer, I have opened a grocery shop at my house, and have extended my sources of income to both crop and animal husbandry. I use the money to take care of all my family needs,” She concludes.
After completing her training, Pump Aid Beyond Water also equipped Laureen with working tools, branded work suits, a bicycle and a smart phone for easy water point data collection, management and sharing with the head office for easy interventions wherever need arises, as the organisation maintains water point functionality rate above 96%.
On her part, Pump Aid Beyond Water Field Officer for Kasungu District, Mebbie Gwirima is grateful to Rotork for the key roles it plays in the funding the funding of CBCC activities including capacity building for caregivers in various disciplines, but also ensuring that there is reliable water supply in such centres and schools.
“As we celebrate Women in Engineering this year, we will keep training more female Area hand pump engineers, as mothers have a special place for children and families in their hearts, as well as stand out as a shinning inspiration to both men, fellow women and girls in society when equipped with the best technical skills. Thank you Rotork for the support!” Gwirima says.
The International Women in Engineering Day Theme for 2024 is ‘Celebrating the amazing work that women engineers around the world are doing to support lives and livelihoods every day’. Why not make a donation to support the training of more women in engineering in Malawi?
