The report begins with a review of the different treadle pumps currently in use in Africa and the information available on their technical performance, with a view to trying to answer the question – Which is the best treadle pump? Or perhaps more appropriately – Which is the best for a given situation? This is followed by reports prepared by national experts on the experience of using treadle pumps in different countries across Africa. These principally address the important issues of economic and social impact of this technology change, its acceptability and sustainability. This experience should help those who are just beginning to think about treadle pumps, wondering if they are right for them and, if so, how best to introduce them into their situation.