Borehole Siting in Zimbabwe - Detecting Underground Water!

Scientific Borehole Siting: Precision Before Drilling

Nakiso Borehole Drilling is a knowledgeable and experienced borehole siting services company based in Harare but operates across the country. We don't just guess; we analyze the earth.

Borehole siting is the critical first step in establishing a reliable water supply. It involves the scientific assessment of the geological landscape to determine the most promising location and depth for drilling.

At Nakiso, we have specialised and qualified borehole siting personnel and hydro-geologists who undertake comprehensive site visits for assessment purposes. We aim to minimize the risk of dry holes and maximize the yield of your investment.

Borehole Siting with Nakiso Borehole Drilling
Professional site assessment in action.

The Two Approaches to Siting

In Zimbabwe, there are generally two methods used for siting boreholes: the traditional method and the scientific survey method. Understanding the difference is key to your success.

1. The Traditional Method (Dowsing)

Also known as water witching or divining, this practice involves locating underground water using a forked stick, L-shaped rods, or a pendulum. The tool reacts when the individual moves above a potential water source.

Note: Although dowsing can yield results, hydrologists and geologists generally do not endorse the practice as it lacks scientific data verification.

2. The Geological Survey Method

This scientific approach involves the use of electronic resistivity meters and geological maps. These maps show the types of rocks that exist below the ground and the direction of their dip.

By studying the dip of rock units and the topography, our experts can determine the direction of groundwater flow, potential recharge areas, springs, and discharge points.

Scientific Borehole Siting Equipment
Using advanced technology to map underground aquifers.

Deep Dive: How Geologists Find Water

We base our recommendations on the characteristics of the land, rocks beneath, and principles of groundwater movement.

Our process is rigorous. Nakiso geologists analyze data from previous wells drilled in the local area to understand the subterranean environment. We keep a detailed file of rock types penetrated and the quantity of water produced for each well drilled in specific zones.

Advanced Techniques for Difficult Areas:

  1. Aerial Photography: It is common for hydrologists to examine aerial photos when siting a borehole in a challenging area. These photos often show linear features (lineaments) that may indicate fracture zones beneath the surface where water accumulates.
  2. Resistivity Sounding: Sending electrical signals into the ground to detect changes in rock resistance, which often indicates the presence of water-bearing fractures.
Nakiso Geologists on Site
Precision planning leads to successful drilling.

Don't Gamble with Your Investment

A professional siting can be the difference between a dry hole and a lifetime supply of water. Contact us today to learn more about our borehole siting services.

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About Nakiso Borehole Drilling

At Nakiso Borehole Drilling, we are your comprehensive partner for unlocking reliable water on your property. Our highly skilled team tackles all drilling projects, from standard boreholes to specialized Blast Hole and RC Drilling.

We handle everything in-house for a seamless experience, encompassing expert borehole siting, efficient drilling, and pump installation – solar, electric, or manual – tailored to your specific needs. With Nakiso, your reliable water source is just a drill away.

We don't just strive to be the best; we maintain the industry's strictest quality standards and are committed to sustainable practices for the future of Zimbabwe's water security.

Fact 1: Know Your Borehole Casings

The Preferred Borehole Casing In Zimbabwe Is Class 9 and 10 (Pressure Classes.)

This is because Class 9 and Class 10 Casings are more collapse resistant. The strength of a Casing is often described as collapse resistance.

Fact 2: Borehole Drilling Depth

The exact depth, of where the water is located, cannot be established by the drilling contractor nor the Water Surveyor (Borehole Siter).

Fact 3: There Is No 100% Guarantee

It is important to note that it is never a 100% guarantee that any hole will yield water, the amount and water quality can also not be guaranteed by the drilling contractor and water surveyor.

Fact 4: Siting Is Important
Fact 5: Know The Risks

Our Branches and Our Contacts



Churchill Avenue Office
Churchill Branch
Bluff Hill Office
Bluff Hill Branch

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