The eighth well built by Chinese company MKM Mineral Co in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been put into use, which will solve water drinking problem for thousands of villagers.

Altogether the eight wells, all built by the company, a subsidiary of China Railway Resources Group Co, will provide clean drinking water for nearly 20,000 locals in Kisanfu village, Lualaba province, and nearby areas, according to the company.

Before the wells were built, villagers in Kisanfu faced difficulties in accessing clean water. To get clean water, many had to carry buckets of water and walk more than 10 kilometers to get water from a river. However, the river water was not clean enough and caused health risks to local people.

Knowing the dilemma locals had, MKM Mineral Co decided to build wells to help them solve the problem. The wells have been warmly welcomed by villagers and they have become a symbol of friendship between China and the DRC, said the company.

In addition to the wells, the company will also build more primary schools, health centers, sports facilities and other projects to help sustainable development for local communities.

In recent years, more Chinese companies investing in Africa have intensified efforts to carry out social responsibility projects, which have directly benefited people living in more remote rural areas.