Build a water well in Africa or Asia: cost, steps, timelines and how to have it built in your name

“Build a well” is one of the first ideas that come to mind when looking for a Sadaqah Jariyah. But between the intention and the completed well, questions pile up: how much does it cost, where, how long, who digs, and how can you be sure the well exists? This guide answers everything, with figures.

How much does a well cost?

The price depends first on the depth of the water table and the type of structure. In South Asia, water is often a few dozen metres down: a hand pump on a borehole is enough. In the Sahel, you sometimes have to go much deeper, with heavy equipment. Here are our prices:

These prices include the site survey, drilling, the pump, the plaque engraved with the name of your choice and the completion video. A well can also be funded by several people (siblings, friends, colleagues): one name or one family on the plaque.

The 5 steps of a well

1. Choosing the village. We identify communities without access to clean water, prioritising those where women walk several kilometres a day.
2. Survey and permission. Locating the water point, agreement of the village chief or local authorities.
3. Drilling. Manual or mechanised depending on depth. Casing isolates the water from polluted surface layers.
4. Installing the pump and plaque. Robust hand pump, concrete slab, plaque with the name you chose.
5. Handover to the community and video. The village takes over maintenance; you receive the video on WhatsApp.

How long does it take?

Generally allow a few weeks to a few months between the order and the video, depending on the country, the rainy season and the availability of drilling teams. Bangladesh and India are the fastest; Niger requires more logistics. We keep you informed at every step.

Africa or Asia: where to build your well?

Both needs are real. The choice depends on your budget and your attachment:

• Bangladesh and India: lower cost, quick drilling, very densely populated rural areas. A single well serves many families.
• Niger: one of the most arid countries in the world. The well costs more but radically changes the life of a whole village: men, women, children and livestock.

The well as Sadaqah Jariyah: what the texts say

Sa'd ibn 'Ubadah asked: “O Messenger of Allah, my mother has died. Which charity is best?” He answered: “Water.” Sa'd dug a well and said: “This one is for the mother of Sa'd.”

Abu Dawud, an-Nasa'i.

This is why a well is so often given in the name of someone deceased. As long as the water flows, the reward continues.

How to check the well really exists

This is the most important question, and many do not dare ask it. Insist on:

• a video of the well in operation, with the plaque in your name legible;
• the location (village, region);
• a contact who answers your questions after completion.

Sanabil sends the video on WhatsApp for every well and our services are reviewed by an independent Sharia Board. Our Trustpilot reviews are public.

Frequently asked questions