Message-ID: <36930F10.336F@AfricaOnline.Co.Ci> Date: Wed, 6 Jan 1999 08:21:52 +0100 From: Reid Harvey <mailto:ceramics@AfricaOnline.Co.Ci> Subject: A Better Challenge To: mailto:DEVEL-L@AMERICAN.EDU
As the originator of the Robinson Crusoe thread I would like to say that at no time did I ever describe the island as a, desert island. Rather, I described it as a, resource-rich island. I do not think I would so readily suggest using ceramic processes on a desert island.As to pumps, and metal parts breaking, I suggested the islanders getting involved in the metal work needed to replace the parts, or in this case, build the pump from scratch. This is also to suggest foundary techniques as an option for the many other 'islands.' If clean water were a problem on the island I may advocate a silver-impregnated water filter. Very effective and easy to make. Several months ago I posted more information on this filter to this list.
I would like to say more about my communications with several groups regarding this filter, since the response I've had points up a not unusual problem in the way technology is transferred. Approaching one, large European organization, whose aim is technology transfer, I had the assistance of someone who was very senior with the organization prior to retirement. The person was dismayed that there was a lack of interest in the filter, the response being, 'these kinds of issues and technologies are being dealt with in the countries themselves.'
I think that when people doing technology transfer go to a low income area to work with the local people they should act as if they were on an island. They should step into the shoes of the local people. What kinds of projects are best implemented with local initiative? What kinds deal with essential, life and death issues, perhaps requiring 'outside intervention?' What kinds of projects offer stop gap solutions? What kinds offer long term answers?
The same European organization I mentioned has been renowned and has done a lot of good work. I have benefitted immeasureably by some of their publications. So I was amazed when, three years ago at a shelter forum in Nairobi, someone from this organization said to me, "books? No one reads books." And to the larger group this person said, "All the appropriate technology has been developed. Now it is up to you people to implement it." (The suggestion being, "you are not forming partnerships. You are arguing between yourselves.")
I have also come across a number of people involved in technology transfer and humanitarian work who say that their groups have lost their spark. That they need a good swift kick in the rear to get back into what they are supposed to be doing. The fact is that all the appropriate technologies have NOT been developed. This reminds me of various inventors in history, say early in the century, saying that all the important scientific discoveries had been made. And, the fact is that even if only 1% of the recipients of books on appropriate technology actually read those books and use them, a great step forward has been made. Enough of these steps and the quality of life will be greatly improved.
Yet another soapbox.