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The Mzuzu Drill (SMART Centre Malawi)

Mzuzu Drill Method

Developed at the Mzuzu University SMART Centre in Malawi, the Mzuzu drill is an open-source sludging technique designed to install rural wells for low-cost Rope Pumps.

Construction & Field Use

  • Sludge Recirculation: Uses a hollow steel pipe rotated by two operators with cross handles while a third operator pumps slurry by closing their palm over the pipe outlet on the upstroke.
  • Local Enterprise: SMART Centres train local entrepreneurs to establish independent well-drilling businesses, creating sustainable private sector micro-enterprises without donor dependency.