Consultancy Services: Assessment, Analysis, and Optimization of the Boujdour Gravity-Fed Piped Water Supply Network via ReliefWeb

1. Background

The Sahrawi Refugee Camps in Southwestern Algeria, Tindouf were established in 1975 and have been administered by Polisario with full support from UNHCR. The five camps namely Layoune, Smara, Ausserd, Boujdour, and Dakhla are situated in the middle of a dusty desert around the vicinity of the regional town of Tindouf, bordering Morocco and Mauritania. Water, is one of the critical commodities to sustain life, has been a scarce resource in the camps. Except for rare, seasonal, one-off, and destructive flooding events that happen in some instances, the area does not enjoy surface water resources. The only water source available is underground, including Hamadian and Visian aquifers which are exploited through a series of boreholes (BH). Water from boreholes is saline and requires Reverse Osmosis water treatment, making water provision to the camps extremely expensive. Water trucking has been a costly solution significantly overstretched due to a lack of capital investment to complete the water network.

Boujdour camp is about 28 km from Tindouf city on the same route to Smara and has the population of 16,400 (Map 1). Population demography is the same as the other four camps. The camp depends on water wells in the zone two as aquifer (Karastic Visean aquifer – in Smara area, where there are Four active BHs in this zone supplying water to Smara and Boujdour camps) (Map 2). Boujdour camp was the last of five refugee camps fully dependent on water trucking. In 2021, Oxfam began working on the network construction for Boujdour camp. With funding from ECHO, SIDA and UNHCR, Oxfam constructed 71.2 km, which represents 100% of the total planned network and constructed an elevated water reservoir of 320 m3 capacity and a ground reservoir of 320 m3 capacity (Photo 1 & 2).

The pipes material for the distribution network is of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and are connected using electrofusion welding. The gate valves used in the system are of cast iron. The outlets of the underground pipes are tap stands & these typically have a metal frame supporting 1” GI (Galvanized Iron) pipe rising 1 m out of the ground and divided in two ¾” GI pipes, each ending with a tap connected to a ¾” flexible hosepipe. Most of the tap stands are covered with protective steel boxes. The maximum distance of the ‘tap-stand -distribution point’ from the collection of the 1.5 m3 household storage tanks would be between 100 – 150 meters radius. This model has been developed with the hypothesis of “all taps open” and flow for each tap is 0.417 l/s making a base demand flow at each ‘tap stand filling station’ with two taps to be 0.83 l/s – allowing 1.5 m3 tank to be filled with in an hour.

The tap stands locations and numbers have been done through consultation with the community. The location and number of tap stands has been determined after the construction of the water network which was more than the number of taps stands specified in the technical study. The impact of the tap stands numbers and locations have not been determined in terms of the flow and the pressure at different conditions of operation[1].

OXFAM aims to assess the overall efficiency of the water network, identify pressure imbalances, evaluate unconnected families, and propose cost-effective technical solutions to ensure equitable and technically sustainable access across the camp.

[1] The Minister of MIAMA shared his views that several factors, in addition to the increase in tap stands, may be contributing to the lack of water pressure: 1. Insufficient height (m) of the tanks; 2. Water production and distribution are managed by two different INGOs; 3. Absence of an urbanization plan—families can build houses wherever they choose—and increasing population (households), which impacts the topographic design of each extension; 4. The need for new decentralized borehole drilling and a treatment plant.

2. Overall Objectives

The overall objective of this consultancy is to conduct a comprehensive and participatory assessment of the Boujdour gravity-fed piped water supply network within the refugee camp. This includes evaluating the overall efficiency of the network, identifying causes of water pressure imbalances, and developing actionable and environmentally sustainable recommendations to ensure a consistent, climate-resilient, and equitable water supply across the camp[1].

3. The Outcomes

The expected outcome is a comprehensive and forward-looking plan that presents multiple technical scenarios, outlining the pros and cons of each, and recommends the most suitable solution tailored to the camp’s specific context and constraints[2].

4. Specific Objectives

4.1 Hydraulic Analysis of the network and Tap Stand Optimization

• Analyze Tap Stand Impact: Assess the effect of tap stands on the network’s hydraulic performance, efficiencies, focusing on flow rates and pressure distribution.
• Propose Technico-Economic Solutions: Develop practical and cost-effective solutions to address low-and imbalance pressure issues within the network.
• Address Air Presence in Pipes: Identify and recommend strategies to mitigate the presence of air (air block) in the pipes, ensuring consistent water flow.

4.2 Reservoir Tank Filling Time Study

• Investigate Filling Time: Examine the filling time for both the elevated and the ground tank from the Bolla station.
• Assess Gravity Efficiency: Determine whether gravity alone can efficiently fill the tanks (in targeted hours) or if additional mechanisms are required (e.g. Pumping Station).
• Recommend Cost-Effective Techniques: Propose economically and technically viable methods to reduce the filling time of the tanks, enhancing the overall efficiency of the water supply system.
• Evaluate the feasibility of solar-powered or other renewable energy sources to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

4.3 Population Coverage and Inclusion Assessment

• Identify Unconnected Families / Households: Map and quantify the population and families are not currently connected to the water network. (Data should be disaggregated for wilaya / daira).
• Feasibility Study: Evaluate the technical feasibility and hydraulic impact of connecting these families.
• Cost-Efficiency Analysis: Propose economically and technically feasible options to achieve full population coverage.
• Final Recommendation: Provide a recommendation based on system capacity, cost, and equity.

4.4 Environmental Sustainability and Renewable Solutions

• Explore and propose environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient technical solutions for the water network, including solar-powered or other renewable energy sources, gravity-fed optimization, and energy-efficient storage.
• Assess the feasibility, cost, and environmental impact of integrating such solutions into the current infrastructure.

4.5 Engage Oxfam WASH and MEAL team members throughout the assessment process to promote skills transfer and local ownership of methodologies

• Provide hands-on training in hydraulic modelling / simulation, GIS mapping, and pressure analysis throughout the assessment.
• Develop simplified, context-specific technical SOPs in both English and Arabic to support future internal learning and capacity building.

5. Scope of Work

The consultancy service will undertake the following tasks:

5.1 Data Collection and Initial Review

• Collect and review existing data on the water supply network, including reports, strategies, maps, design documents, and usage records.
• Conduct initial site visits to understand the current operational status and identify immediate issues.
• Real-time consultations with key stakeholders directly involved in the network and project—including selected beneficiaries, Oxfam project staff, donors, sector actors, representatives from the Ministry of Water and Environment, local authorities, and relevant WASH-sector INGOs—to gather insights and contextual information.
• Engage Oxfam WASH and MEAL staff throughout the entire study process—including the desk review, selection of data collection tools and equipment (e.g., SurveyCTO, KOBO, tablets), data collection and analysis, community and stakeholder meetings/interviews, and report preparation—to ensure hands-on learning and strengthen contextual understanding.

5.2 Comprehensive Network Assessment

• Perform a detailed hydraulic analysis of the current network to identify pressure issues.
• Assess the physical condition of the existing water network (from Jirafa to household water storage tanks), including:
  • Valves, manholes, and other control components
  • Pipelines and reservoir tanks
  • Tap stands with hosepipes (including peak flow rates, calibration, and performance)
  • Other relevant infrastructure elements
  • Areas identified for future expansion, including design specifications, BoQs, and layout
• Evaluate the alignment between the designed and actual water distribution patterns, schedules, and management practices.
• Map and assess unconnected households and zones, and conduct a dedicated sub-analysis covering:
  • Demographic characteristics
  • Topography and spatial layout
  • Water demand projections
  • Assess the feasibility of household connections and propose appropriate technical solutions, including estimated pipeline length (in km), number of tap stands, valves, manholes, and relevant design specifications (e.g., dimensions, materials).

5.3 Diagnosis and Root Cause Analysis

• Identify root causes of excessive pressure in certain areas and inadequate pressure in others.
• Assess the influence of topography, terrain, network design, and operational practices on water distribution and collection (point of collection).

5.4 Development of Comprehensive Technical Solutions

• Propose practical solutions to balance water pressure and ensure equitable supply, such as installing pressure-reducing valves, reconfiguring the network, or upgrading infrastructure including pumping house, booster pumping etc.
• Provide a detailed implementation plan with cost estimates, timelines, and potential amended design based in a comparative study of technical scenarios considering feasibility including contextual analyse for future funding.
• Include options to connect currently unserved families with technical drawings and impact analysis.
• Include environmental considerations such as renewable energy potential or material durability.

5.5 Reporting and Documentation

• Prepare and submit detailed reports mentioned at the paragraph 5, including main findings, detailed analyse, and recommendations.
• Conduct a final presentation of the findings to the Authority, SRC, SOLI, donors and other relevant stakeholders: dissemination of results, considering the difference audience and the translation.

5.6 Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer

In close collaboration with Oxfam’s WASH and MEAL teams, the consultancy will facilitate hands-on, practical learning during field assessment and data analysis phases. The objective is to strengthen the technical capacity of Oxfam and partner staff in hydraulic modelling / simulation, field inspection, data collection, and the use of digital tools for optimizing WASH network performance.

5.7 Stakeholder Engagement and Government Liaison

Additionally, the consultancy shall ensure structured and meaningful engagement with local authorities—including, but not limited to, the Sahrawi Ministry of Water, the regional directorate, and local Daira councils. This will include inception briefings, mid-term updates, and validation of findings to ensure transparency, ownership, and alignment with local priorities and expectations.

6. Deliverables

6.1Inception Report (Covering, within week 1)

• Detailed methodology and work plan.
• Schedule of activities and timeline.
• Inclusion of Bibliography

6.2 Draft Report (Covering comprehensive analysis of the network and detailed findings & recommendation etc)

• Detailed Technical Analysis.
• Design Review for Completed Networks.
• Reservoir Tank Filling Time Study.
• Optimized Water Distribution Schedule.
• A section for ‘water supply management plan’.
• Population Access Coverage Analysis: number and distribution of unconnected families.
• Feasibility and impact analysis of integrating these areas.
• Recommendations for inclusion with minimal disruption to existing services.

6.3 Additional Deliverables (propose a solution for any disfunction of the water network)

• Propose at least three technical solutions, each accompanied by a rating based on key criteria such as cost-effectiveness, feasibility, and sustainability.
• Detailed Design, Drawing, Specifications, BoQs etc.
• Cost Estimation (Breakdown) for each solution.
• Recommendation of the best solution based on the context.

6.4 Final Reports (Covering ALL above described in #2 – #4)

• Revised report incorporating feedback from stakeholders.
• Share ALL relevant annexures related to this consultancy service.

7. Mode of Reports

The report shall be submitted in English and Spanish) in the form of:

• A hard and electronic copy of the Inception, Draft and Final Reports.
• One hard copy and electronic copy (PDF and Drawing Format) of the designs and technical design report.
• One hard copy and electronic copy (PDF and XLSX Format) of the detailed estimate.

1. Timeframe

The consultancy service is expected to complete the assignment within 7-weeks from the contract signing date.

TENTATIVE WORKPLAN (SEE LINK)

9. Management

The awarded Consultancy / Engineering Firm will report to Oxfam WASH Team (Senior Officer/Programme Manager) in Sahrawi Refugee Response Programme. The Consultancy Firm is also expected to coordinate closely with Oxfam’s WASH and MEAL teams to ensure a participatory process that enhances local staff skills and ownership of results.

10. Proposal Submission

Interested consultancy / engineering firm are invited to submit their proposals, which should include:

• Detailed technical proposal including approach and methodology. The methodology section must clearly detail the techniques and tools the consultancy intends to use for each component of the study (e.g., hydraulic modelling/simulation, GIS mapping, community consultations, field data collection protocols). Visual flowcharts or annexes are encouraged.
• Detailed Budget proposal of the assignment and accurate calendrer.
• A detailed implementation timeline that aligns with Oxfam’s operational calendar and clearly outlines week-by-week activities, milestones, and deliverable dates. This timeline must respond to programmatic needs and be included in the proposal submission. Team composition and CVs of the whole key personnel.
• Relevant experience and case studies, particularly in similar context.
• Financial proposal / budget breakdown.
• References contact data in case OXFAM wanted a prior consultation.
• Language of the offer is English & French.

11. Skills and experience – Criteria for selection

The firm should demonstrate the following qualifications:

• A multidisciplinary team including experienced civil and hydraulic engineers with demonstrated expertise in water supply systems (CVs, reference projects, and permission for consultation should be provided).
• A proven track record of conducting similar assessments and network optimization projects, preferably in refugee camps or comparable humanitarian contexts.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality outputs within agreed timeframes.
• Evidence of using sound, context-appropriate, and technically robust methodologies.
• Strong skills in community engagement and stakeholder consultation.
• Good understanding of local conditions and relevant regulatory frameworks.

1. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

• Understanding of the assignment and proposed methodology.
• Relevant experience and qualifications of the consultancy team.
• Appropriateness and feasibility of the work plan and timeline.
• Financial competitiveness and value for money. The financial proposal should include a disaggregated budget with clear unit costs for each deliverable or service (e.g. field visit days, modelling / simulation analysis, data collection / analysis, hands-on training, report writing, technical drawings, BoQs). The breakdown must be detailed enough to assess cost-efficiency and compare proposals. Please include any assumptions behind the pricing.

The award of the consultancy service shall be made to the consultancy / engineering firm who has received the highest score out of predetermined technical and financial criteria specific to the solicitation. Evaluation Criteria: See link

13. Additional information

OXFAM will not cover any cost related to this work besides the agreed assignment cost described in the financial / budget breakdown proposal.

Budget: To be proposed by the consultant, including fees, travel, and expenses.

P.S. Accommodation is estimated at 4500 DZD (35 Euro) per night, including breakfast & dinner. (This rate is applicable to all consultants in the Sahrawi refugee camps and must be considered when preparing the financial offer.)

The consultant agrees to comply with all security measures required by Oxfam in Algeria (including accommodation in the camp – Protocol, movements outside the camp, institutional relations with the Sahrawi authorities).

Financial Proposal (In DZD for Algerian consultants and consulting firms, and in EUR for foreign consultants and firms):

• Breakdown of consultant fees, including daily rate and estimated total cost.
• Travel and accommodation expenses (if applicable).
• Other associated costs.
• Payment schedule linked to deliverables.

Administrative and Compliance Documents (in accordance with Oxfam’s procurement rules):

• Proof of registration as an independent consultant or consulting firm (if applicable).
• Tax compliance certificate or equivalent (if applicable).
• Signed declaration of ethics and non-conflict of interest.
• Copy of professional liability insurance (if available).

Oxfam reserves the right to conduct interviews with shortlisted candidates before final selection.

During the selection committee process for this consultancy, Oxfam will consider the visa requirements and the facility of obtaining them for entry into Algeria.

It is highly recommended that consultants include this information in their offers.

Submission Deadline and Contact Information

• Applications must be submitted by August 10, 2025.
• Submit all documents in WORD or PDF format to SAHARA.ACHATS@OXFAM.ORG with the subject line: “25-053/ Application for Consultancy Services “Assessment, Analysis, and Optimization of the Boujdour Gravity-Fed Piped Water Supply Network”
• For any questions, please contact SAHARA.ACHATS@OXFAM.ORG

Additional Considerations

• Only complete applications will be considered.
• Oxfam encourages applications from women, individuals from diverse backgrounds, and feminist researchers.
• Shortlisted candidates may be asked to submit additional clarifications or participate in an interview.

14. Use of Findings for Advocacy and Fundraising

The final report shall include a dedicated executive summary, and visual annexes (maps, graphs, photos) tailored for use in donor communication and international advocacy. The consultancy shall ensure that the report highlights key figures, challenges, and opportunities that can inform fundraising campaigns, donor briefings, and visibility materials. This includes providing a narrative on how improved water access supports the dignity, health, and resilience of refugee populations.

Attachments: (SEE LINK)

[1] In addition to the technical assessment, the consultancy will engage closely with Oxfam’s WASH and MEAL teams to build internal capacity on hydraulic modelling / simulation, network design, and analysis methodologies. It will also assess families and populations in various dairas that are not currently connected to the network and evaluate technically and economically viable options to integrate these areas without compromising the current network’s performance. Finally, the consultancy will produce deliverables that can be adapted for advocacy and donor engagement, supporting Oxfam’s efforts to mobilize resources and raise awareness on the critical water needs of Sahrawi refugees.

[2] This will include Hydraulic simulations to validate current challenges; Optimization proposals such as network redesign, zoning, and storage capacity adjustments; Potential transition scenarios, including reduced reliance on generators and boosters; A practical, phased implementation roadmap. The approach should support evidence-based decision-making and go beyond merely restating existing limitations.

How to apply

Submission Deadline and Contact Information

• Applications must be submitted by August 10, 2025.
• Submit all documents in WORD or PDF format to SAHARA.ACHATS@OXFAM.ORG with the subject line: “25-053/ Application for Consultancy Services “Assessment, Analysis, and Optimization of the Boujdour Gravity-Fed Piped Water Supply Network”
• For any questions, please contact SAHARA.ACHATS@OXFAM.ORG
• You can ask to receive the TOR in PDF version by sending email to SAHARA.ACHATS@OXFAM.ORG