Terms of Reference (ToR): Borehole Drilling Services

1. Background

The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) is implementing the Building Biodiversity Resilience in Southern Kenya (BRISK) project, funded by SIDA, to improve sustainable access to water resources while protecting biodiversity. Hydrological surveys and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) have been completed for two proposed borehole sites, one located within Tsavo West National Park and another in Zongwani, Sagalla Ward, Taita Taveta County.
AWF now invites qualified and experienced borehole drilling firms to submit proposals for drilling and initial equipping of the two boreholes.

2. Objective

To engage competent drilling contractors to drill and case two boreholes based on completed hydrological assessments and in line with Kenya’s water management and environmental regulations.

3. Scope of Work

The selected firm(s) will:
- Mobilize drilling equipment and staff to the identified sites.
- Drill the boreholes as per specifications provided in the hydrological reports.
- Conduct borehole development (cleaning, test pumping, and yield testing).
- Install casing and gravel pack as per hydrogeological recommendations.
- Provide a borehole completion report with pump test data, water quality results, and as-built drawings.
- Ensure environmental and safety compliance throughout the process.

4. Deliverables

- Successfully drilled and cased boreholes at each of the two sites.
- Final borehole completion report.
- Test pumping and water quality test results.
- Site restoration post-completion.

5. Qualifications of Bidders

Eligible firms must demonstrate:

• Valid registration with the Water Resources Authority (WRA) and National Construction Authority.
• Valid Tax compliance certificate
• Copy of PIN certificate
• Proven experience in drilling boreholes in remote, ecologically sensitive environments.
• Availability of qualified technical staff and drilling equipment.
• At least 5 years of similar experience, with references from three recent projects.
• Compliance with environmental and occupational health standards.

6. Proposal Requirements

Interested firms should submit:

• Technical proposal detailing the methodology, work plan, equipment, and team composition.
• Financial proposal inclusive of all costs and taxes.
• Copies of company registration, WRA license, and relevant permits.
• References and examples of past similar assignments.

7. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated on:

• Technical Capacity & Methodology (40%)
• Relevant Experience & References (30%)
• Financial Competitiveness (20%)
• Environmental and Safety Compliance (10%)

8. Submission Details

All proposals should be submitted electronically to procurement@awf.org 
Subject line: “Proposal for Borehole Drilling – BRISK Project”
Submission Deadline: June 3, 2025, 5PM EAT.

Drillers within the County Government of Taita Taveta are encouraged to apply.