Zimbabwe's user-friendly Bush Pump

This article outlines the results of research and development carried out on the Bush Pump over the last six years. Since 1989, the "B" type Bush Pump, manufactured locally, has been the national standard model. The article describes the design of the bush pump (with a diagram) concentrating on modifications to the down-the-hole components in order to minimize wear on these components and to make routine maintenance easier. Steps to replace the seal of the hand pump are also outlined. The extractable version of the Bush Pump has been officially endorsed by the Zimbabwean Government and, although its output is less than the standard model, it has gained acceptance in communities due to its simpler maintenance procedures which encourage community-based maintenance. The article points out that Zimbabwe still has a long way to go in financing the refurbishment or replacement of pumps which is now usually donor-funded.