It was noted during community visits that inspection logs and maintenance records were available and diligently maintained by local water point committees, which ensured that any necessary repairs were typically resolved within hours or days. As reported by a respondent from Chiwinga,“ A community technician is available to conduct regular servicing. Funds are raised for emergency repairs”. Community members generally reported minimal downtime for The Sonder Project water points, with many wells described as having never dried up since their installation. These findings suggest that the project’ s emphasis on local management and rapid response to technical issues contribute to the sustained functionality of the water infrastructure.
4.1.2 Community Financing and Ownership
It was also reported that the community-led financial model constitutes a fundamental component underpinning the infrastructural and functional resilience of the WASH systems. A community member from Chimphako described the community’ s involvement in The Sonder Project’ s WASH project as:
“ The biggest influence is how Sonder made us feel involved. We were not just beneficiaries— we contributed bricks and cement. That made us respect the borehole and keep it in good condition. It was not just given; we were part of building it.”
— Community member, Chimphako
According to local participants, each household bears the responsibility of contributing an agreed fee into a communal maintenance fund, which collectively supports the long-term functionality of the water infrastructure. This approach was emphasized as crucial in ensuring that resources are available for routine repairs and unforeseen technical issues, thereby minimizing service interruptions. Furthermore, it was noted that this financial mechanism also actively fosters a sense of local ownership and accountability among participants, encouraging proactive engagement in system upkeep and governance.
“ Guidelines are in place to ensure fair water use and each household contributes monthly.”
— FGD respondent, Chiwinga
The transparent management of contributions and meticulous record-keeping were highlighted as reinforcing trust within the community, strengthening the sustainability of the project, and reducing dependency on external actors. Such a model was regarded by respondents as instrumental in promoting both the physical durability of infrastructure and the social cohesion necessary for ongoing operational success. In very few cases, it was reported that some households have previously lost access to water points due to outstanding contributions towards the community repair fund. As described by a community member in Jonasi:“ In the case where someone has failed to contribute that amount, the rule is that the household is denied water access until the fee is paid.”
Overall, this approach was widely viewed as an effective way to promote accountability and foster a sense of shared responsibility. This also presents an opportunity to explore more flexible or supportive payment arrangements, ensuring that even the most vulnerable households can maintain access while still contributing to the long-term sustainability of the water systems.
4.1.3 Impact on Women, Girls, and Other Marginalized Groups
One of the most immediate and significant outcomes of improved water access was the reduction in time devoted to water collection, a responsibility historically borne
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