Abstract:
Third World development theory and practice are changing so rapidly that it is
important to critically examine the fashions of today before they become history. This
thesis considers the development, transfer, early adoption and sustainable use of
technology, coupled with private sector participation in rural water supply provision.
Improving water supplies for rural communities is one of the key challenges
faced by development interventionists today. Lack of low cost, off the shelf technology
for local enterprise which can provide affordable shallow wells for rural communities is
one barrier to facilitating improvements.
This thesis is based on research undertaken in Uganda to develop and transfer
low cost water drilling technology in the context of decentralisation and privatisation
policies. An extensive range of literature has been drawn together into 16 principles
which guide technology transfer and development intervention. These principles are reexamined
in the light of analysis of first hand experiences of undertaking a technology
transfer project and interviews with stakeholders regarding their attitudes and
perceptions.
The research found that technology transfer is a cross-disciplinary and cross
cultural process in which the linkages between the technology, context, individuals,
organisations and beneficiaries need to be firmly established. Ugandan business and
local Government culture plays a major role in facilitating successful technology
uptake. Dealing with the risks associated with low cost groundwater technology is
fundamental for its wider adoption. The process of technology transfer is important,
particularly as high levels of stakeholder participation may compromise the delivery of
outputs, at least in the short term.
In terms of future challenges, this thesis shows that, culture, governance and
equity need to be closely examined in relation to private sector participation in rural
infrastructure provision. Private sector participation can conflict with community
participation. How to adequately support innovation in Sub-Saharan Africa while
harmonising development interventions is a challenge to the development community.
