This project involved the comprehensive engineering design of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure to support the initiatives of Deutsche Welthungerhilfe in Malawi. Executed by MK Consulting Engineers, the assignment focused on creating resilient, functional, and technical solutions for water storage, distribution, and waste management within Lilongwe City.

The project, valued at USD 12,000, was conducted over a two-month period between September and November 2024. It required a total of four staff-months of high-level technical expertise to deliver structural and hydraulic designs tailored to the local landscape.

Technical Narrative and Scope of Infrastructure

The design scope covered a diverse range of civil and structural components essential for community-level water and sanitation services. Key infrastructure included:

• Water Storage and Distribution: The design featured both elevated steel and masonry water tanks, as well as groundwater tanks. These systems ensure consistent water pressure and storage capacity. Additional distribution infrastructure included water kiosks, communal water points, and the protection of spring intakes.

• Sanitation and Drainage: To improve public health, the project detailed various Ventilated Improved Pit (VIP) latrines. Managing water flow and waste was addressed through the design of water drains, valve chambers, and dedicated control rooms for system monitoring.

Professional Services and Methodology

The consultancy provided a full suite of engineering services to move the project from concept to a construction-ready state. This included:

• Structural and Civil Engineering: Detailed structural design calculations were performed to ensure the longevity and safety of the elevated tanks and masonry structures.

• Technical Documentation: The team produced comprehensive AutoCAD drawings and Bills of Quantities (BOQs), providing the client with precise measurements and cost estimates for the procurement and construction phases.

• Reporting and Consultation: A rigorous Design Report was compiled to document the technical assumptions and standards used. The team also conducted technical presentations to Welthungerhilfe stakeholders to ensure alignment with humanitarian standards and operational requirements.

Project Leadership and Key Personnel

The assignment was spearheaded by a specialized team of Malawian professionals:

• Moses Kalenga (Team Leader/Design Engineer): Responsible for the overall technical direction, hydraulic designs, and project coordination.

• Bankum Malunga (Structural Engineer): Focused on the integrity of the storage tanks and masonry facilities.

• AutoCAD Technicians: Responsible for the precision drafting of all WASH facility components.

The project was managed in close collaboration with the client’s representative, Limbani Kamanga, under the country directorship of Catherine Keli.