FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Hippo Water Roller?

A Hippo Water Roller is a tool designed to transport water more easily and efficiently. Used mostly in developing countries, it carries 24-gallons (90-litres) of water - 5 times the amount possible using traditional methods. A full Hippo contains 200lbs (90 kg) of water, but because the weight is bourne on the ground, it only feels like 22lbs (10kg).

2. Why is it called a Hippo Water Roller?

The hippopotamus is synonymous with Africa, which is where the Hippo Water Roller originates. The early recipients of the Roller nicknamed it the 'hippo', in reference to its shape, thick skin and its association with water. The name stuck.

3. How are Hippo Water Rollers distributed?

Unless delivery to a specific community or location is requested by the donor, Hippo Water Rollers are distributed free of charge to communities within Southern Africa. Through partnerships with local NGOs, communities in need are identified and introduced to the Hippo Water Roller Project. Interested communities receive Hippos and training on water purification techniques.

4. Who receives the Hippo Water Rollers?

We work with a variety of NGOs based in Southern Africa. These NGOs play an important role in that they have established relations with rural communities, know the needs and have the infrastructure required to correctly manage the distribution of sponsored rollers. Beneficiaries are typically impoverished households with a number of dependants.

5. Why are Hippo Water Rollers donated?

Impoverished communities are the ones worst affected by inadequate access to water. The people who live in these communities are most in need of the Hippo Water Roller, but they are generally not able to afford it. In order to meet this need, Hippo Roller International raises funds to provide them with Hippo Water Rollers free of charge.

6. How can I donate money to the Hippo Water Roller Project?

Donate online: Coming Soon!

Please note: Our application to the U.S.A. IRS for 501c3 (tax exempt) status is pending. We expect our application to be approved in November 2008. However, any contributions made while our application is pending will qualify for tax-exemption when our application is approved.

7. How much does a Hippo Water Roller cost?

One Hippo Water Roller costs $100. The cost of producing a Hippo Water Roller is $90 USD, but shipping and local delivery costs are not included in this amount. For this reason we ask that a further $10 per Hippo is added to help cover local delivery costs.

8. How long does the Hippo Water Roller last?

A Hippo Water Roller typically lasts between 5 and 7 years, although some of the original Hippos distributed over 10 years ago are still functional. This life span depends on the conditions over which the Hippo is used and the distance it has to travel.

9. How many people benefit from one Hippo Water Roller?

On average, one roller will serve seven people directly, and many more indirectly.

10. Where are Hippo Water Rollers manufactured?

Johannesburg, South Africa is the place of manufacture and export of all Hippo Water Rollers. We are planning to establish distribution points in other countries throughout Africa and other developing countries as we identify suitable partners.

11. Can I buy a Hippo Water Roller for myself or a friend?

Hippo Water Rollers can be purchased and shipped to your requested destination. The cost is $90 excluding packaging, shipping and possible customs duties at some destinations. Quotations will be provided on request. Please email your order to grant (at) hipporoller (dot) org

12. How can I become a distributor of a Hippo Water Roller in my area?

Many NGOs, governements, and entrepreneurs throughout the world are recognising the benefits of the Hippo Water Roller and would like to become part of the distribution chain. Inquiries can be addressed to: grant (at) hipporoller (dot) org

The inquiry should include the following information:

- Geographical area of intended operation
- Nature of current activities
- A short description of plans for fund raising, marketing and distribution

13. How can I get a copy of an image (s) for my publication? Is there a charge for this?

All images in the 'Media Section' are downloadable, free of charge. All we ask is that the Hippo Water Roller project is acknowledged in the article and that the website address is included in the article and caption: www.hipporoller.org

Note: We still hold copyright over these images/videos; this is not a copyright waiver. We shall not be held responsible for unlawful use of the images/videos.

14. How can I contact you?

South Africa:

For information about sales, manufacturing or distribution,
please contact Grant Gibbs:

PO Box 170
Fourways, 2055,
South Africa

Email: grant (at) hipporoller (dot) org

North America

For information about volunteering, fundraising, partnerships or media inquiries,
please contact Cynthia Koenig:

PO Box 1636
Ann Arbor, MI 48106
U.S.A.

Email: cynthia (at) hipporoller (dot) org