The survey team traveled throughout Santiago, recorded existing conditions, identified potential project sites, and collected data to plan and evaluate water resources alternatives. The archipelago consists of 10 islands and 5 islets. The capital, Praia, is on the largest island, Santiago, which has a population of 80,000. Existing concrete water storage tanks at Achada Grande, on the Island of Santiago, Cape Verde, an island nation off the coast of Africa, collect and store rainfall for use by local farmers. Cortes said that on Santiago, large quantities of fresh water drain into the ocean immediately after rains and ground water resources are limited.
Agriculture is limited to areas next to streams.
These areas are prone to flooding and must be irrigated from wells during prolonged dry periods. Only 25 percent of the homes in Praia are connected to water. At full capacity, the plant will meet the needs of half the population of Praia. Procurement and installation of 20 well pumps throughout the island, each meeting the daily potable water needs of 5,000 people. The wells can also provide agricultural irrigation.