28 July – 5 October 2026 – Completion of the outdoor kitchen and outdoor toilets

Work on the outdoor kitchen and outdoor toilets began in late July/early August, despite it being the rainy season. Construction had to be frequently interrupted due to the heavy rain during the rainy season. However, the outdoor kitchen was completed by mid-September and the two outdoor toilets by early October. In rural Burkina Faso, these toilets are a type of pit latrine.

Faeces are collected in a dug-out pit beneath the toilet cubicle. From time to time, these are then pumped out and removed. One of our toilets even has a toilet seat, which is rather unusual, but certainly useful so that pregnant women can sit down.

23 September – 21 October 2026 – Completion of the substructure for the water tank and the photovoltaic power supply

At the end of September, electrical wiring was laid in the main building of the midwifery ward, light switches and sockets were fitted, and all rooms were equipped with fans.

The base for the water tank was also completed at the end of September. This base can be used as a storage room. On 23 October, the water tank was delivered and placed on its mounting bracket. The water tank has a capacity of 5,000 litres. Water is pumped into it so that, due to the gradient, sufficient water pressure is generated in the water pipes.

On 3 October, the 10 photovoltaic panels, the battery and the control unit for the power supply were delivered. On 21 October, the photovoltaic panels were mounted on the roof and tested directly with the fans to ensure everything was working smoothly.

Electrical supply: 23 September – 21 October

Outstanding construction work until the completion ceremony on 14 November 2026

All that remains now is to install the roof over the water tank. Work on this is currently underway.

The main building has already been painted on the outside; our outbuildings are currently being painted.

We believe that all this will be finished in time for our completion ceremony on 14 November. Nearly 20 people from Germany and the rest of Europe will be travelling with us to Burkina Faso – not only to celebrate with us, but also to learn more about LaongoCologne’s projects and other initiatives in Burkina Faso.