This is a treadle pump which has been
introduced into Malawi for individual farmer's to use for
irrigation. I am told by the owner of this pump that a sufficient
amount of water can be pumped to irrigate approximately one hectar
of garden in about a day, or less. This will depend on whether or
not the land is level, or on a hillside. The cost of this pump
including the draft hose and 35 meters of irrigation line costs MK
7,500.00 or roughly $75.00 US dollars. Extra hose for irrigation
runs about MK 75.50 per meter, or about $0.75.
This first photo shows you the pump with
the pistons removed so that they can be lightly oiled.
