The Hippo Water Roller enables an eight-year old child to roll 90 litres of water along with ease, compared to an adult being able to carry only 20 litres with a lot of effort and possible injury.

The project need
In South Africa many communities do not have access to water. Consequently:

People walk considerable distances to fetch water.
They must carry it on their heads or on wheelbarrows over difficult terrain.
Hours are spent each day fetching water.
It impacts all facets of life: health, hygiene, schooling, cooking, washing, and food production.
It impacts severely on women and children.

What is the Hippo Roller?
The Hippo roller was designed for local conditions, and alleviates the water access problem. The Hippo roller makes it easier to fetch and store large quantities of water. A large volume of water (90 liters compared to 20) is rolled, as opposed to being carried on the head or some other laborious method. The water is carried in the wheel rather than on the wheel. It is durable and easily maintainable.

Sociological Implications:

Empowerment: Community members are being helped to help themselves. They are responsible for the maintenance and the management of the project.
Health: Serious health ailments are water related. The hygienic method of carrying and storing water in the sealed Hippo Water Roller improves the quality of the water.
Emancipation of women and children: More men are participating in fetching water. Women have time to do more in less time and children have time to play and do homework.
Food and self-sufficiency: Malnutrition is also water related. People can now plant vegetable gardens or raise chickens because of increased water availability. Enabling them to contribute to food production.

top