Analysing and supporting spare parts and maintenance supply chains for handpumps in rural DR Congo

This paper presents findings from a study of spare parts and maintenance supply chains for handpumps in rural areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 2014 by the consultants Absolute Options for Concern Worldwide, and the steps taken by Concern towards implementing some of the key recommendations as part of the DRC WASH Consortium. The analysis and findings are relevant for other actors working on rural water supply. Key emerging issues are the role of international NGOs and donors in supporting supply chain development through more local procurement; the feasible level of professionalization of rural water management; and how INGOs can play a facilitation role in linking local actors to discuss and address these challenges.