In a recent episode of DevelopmentAid Dialogues, we were privileged to host Dr. Kerstin Danert, the visionary leader behind Ask for Water GmbH. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Dr. Danert has made significant contributions to water security and environmental issues, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Through Ask for Water, Dr. Danert fosters collaboration with a global network of governments, NGOs, and research institutions to tackle critical water challenges in low- and middle-income countries. In this episode, Dr. Danert discusses with Hisham Allam her efforts to empower organizations to improve their operations and critically evaluate their practices.
Download the transcript of this episode.
Dr. Danert’s work is holistic, integrating science, engineering, social science, and the arts. She emphasizes the power of knowledge dissemination through various mediums, including film, photography, music, and drama. This approach is evident in her work in Northern Bahr El-Ghazal, South Sudan.
Our conversation delved deeper into Dr. Danert’s work with the Rural Water Supply Network. The network’s focus evolved toward cost-effective boreholes, ultimately transitioning to professional borehole drilling and groundwater development.
Her work centers on ensuring the quality and sustainability of boreholes. She advocates for a holistic approach that considers not only the technical expertise of drillers but also the incentive structures for those contracting their services.
Over the years, Dr. Danert has implemented systematic efforts to enhance skills, establish policies, and raise awareness regarding the importance of incentivizing high-quality borehole drilling. Her work encompasses developing guidelines and comprehensive documents.
However, she expresses concern about the limited interest from international organizations and NGOs in supporting in-country stakeholders to develop their skills and ensure the technical quality of water projects. There is a lack of engagement from qualified hydrogeologists, and more emphasis needs to be placed on ensuring that boreholes are built to last.
Listen to our latest podcast to discover the water supply revolution in sub-Saharan Africa. Explore challenges, innovative solutions such as Uganda’s ban on galvanized iron pipes, and the shift toward sustainability. Despite the obstacles, find hope in education and collaboration driving change.
