Village Drill in Kenya
CT Trust is funding a second Village Drill Hybrid for an experienced, Kenyan-led drilling team to double their capacity and bring reliable clean water to remote communities across Eastern Kenya.
The Kenyan-led drill team drilling a community borehole well using the portable Village Drill.
The Kenya Drill Team
The team is led by George Masika and Davison Chengoni. Davison has served as WHOlives’ master trainer and Drill Master for many years, travelling across the African continent to train new drilling teams. Together, they lead an expert crew of 5–6 local drill operators.
Operating primarily in Kwale County along the coast south of Mombasa, the team’s extensive 13-year track record has earned them contracts and community projects across Eastern Kenya.
Their drilling activity currently consists of roughly 70% community-funded wells and 30% commercial/private wells. With demand for commercial drilling growing steadily, a second drill allows them to expand commercial revenue to self-fund even more community wells.
Why This Project Aligns With CTT Values
Local Leadership
Entirely Kenyan-led, locally based, and independently operated with deep roots in the communities they serve.
Self-Sustaining Model
Generates its own revenue through commercial drilling; no ongoing operating subsidies needed from CTT.
Proven Methodology
Utilises WHOlives’ battle-tested Village Drill technology with 13+ years of on-the-ground operating expertise.
Exceptional Efficiency
A single capital grant enables hundreds of clean water boreholes, serving thousands of people year after year.
High Counterfactual Impact
Without external capital, small local drill teams cannot accumulate $30,000 USD to expand. This investment unlocks capacity that would otherwise remain unrealised.
How It Compares to Our Liberia Project
| Aspect | Kenya Project (2026) | Liberia Project (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Project Objective | Scaling Existing Team | Starting New Team |
| Team Experience | 13+ years drilling experience (WHOlives Drill Master) | New local operators trained from scratch |
| Local Market | Established customer base & high commercial demand | Developing market & community introduction |
| Target Output | Up to ~6 wells per month across two drills | 1–2 wells per month initial ramp-up |
| Funding Required | $30,000 USD (~$48,000 NZD) | $80,000 NZD (new machine, shipping & initial training) |
The WHOlives Revolving Fund Model
WHOlives operates a Village Drill Purchase Assistance Fund designed to place drills into the hands of competent local drillers, maximising the number of wells drilled and people who gain clean water.
The Kenya team is enrolled in the WHOlives Community Funded Well program, meaning they repay the cost of the drill over time through their drilling operations. These repayments replenish the revolving fund so WHOlives can equip future drill teams in other regions.
Investment Breakdown ($30,000 USD)
- Used Village Drill Hybrid $20,000 USD
Already in-country in Kenya; thoroughly inspected and certified by WHOlives Drill Master.
- Electric Motor Adapter Kit $4,500 USD
Converts the drill for dual automatic/generator operation, allowing 2-person drilling crews.
- International Shipping & Customs $2,500 USD
Freight and import clearance for the power kit from WHOlives US headquarters.
- Heavy-Duty Spare Parts Package $3,000 USD
Drill bits, seals, reamers, and wearable components for uninterrupted operations.
Project Updates
Funding Confirmed & Equipment Prepared
CTT confirmed full funding for the second Village Drill Hybrid for the Kenya team. The used drill located in-country has been inspected and approved. The adapter kit and spare parts are scheduled to ship by the end of May 2026. The team is projected to be fully operational with both drills within 4–6 months.
“We’re very grateful for your support and look forward to partnering with you on this great project.” — Mike Anderson, WHOlives
