182. Performance of a Rural Multi-Stage Filtration Plant after Its Handover

This paper reports on the performance of a multistage filtration (MSF) system and associated operational details two years after its handover to the local water association (Regie) in Nyabwishongwezi, Rwanda. During a short-term study period the Nyabwishongwezi Water Treatment Plant (WTP) was monitored for turbidity, suspended solids and faecal coliform removals. Results indicated that although the quality of the product water did not comply with WHO guidelines, it was still aesthetically much more acceptable than the source water (River Umuvumba). Despite operational difficulties, the Regie continues to run the system and serve local communities in this rural area of Africa. The relative success of the Nyabwishongwezi Regie contrasts dramatically with the experiences of the nearby communities served by the Ntoma WTP that reportedly only worked for two days. Two years after the Nyabwishonegwezi plant handover several problems have been identified and discussed with the Regie.