Implementation Trip — December 2019

In December 2019, six members of the Engineers Without Borders Ohio State chapter traveled to the community of Njua in The Gambia for a month-long implementation trip. It was the most technically challenging project the chapter had ever attempted.

The travel team — Dante, Andrew, Lily, Maggie, Jared, and Roger — arrived in Banjul and were welcomed into the community through a traditional naming ceremony, a meaningful start to a month of shared work.

Week by Week

December 14–18: The team arrived and began cultural orientation in Banjul, building relationships with community members before construction began.

December 19–22: Community integration deepened with the naming ceremony. Solar panel installation commenced alongside bore hole drilling.

December 23–29: Drilling continued despite challenging conditions. The bore hole reached a final depth of 42.15 meters.

December 30–January 3: Solar panels were connected to a pump system, delivering clean water to the collection tank for the first time. Community members received hands-on training in maintenance and system operation.

January 4: The irrigation system was completed with electrical connections and tap stand installation. The team conducted community surveys and documented local history before departure on January 6.

What Was Built

The project delivered a solar-powered borehole and pumping system that brings clean water to Njua's collection tank and irrigation infrastructure. Community members were trained to operate and maintain the system independently — ensuring the work outlasts the team's presence.

This trip marked a turning point for the chapter: proof that student engineers, working in close partnership with a community, can deliver infrastructure that changes daily life.