Clean Water for Kibera

Water is life – a simple truth that takes on profound meaning in Kibera, one of Africa's largest urban slums, where access to clean water has long been a daily struggle for thousands of families.

Before our intervention, residents would spend hours queuing at expensive water points, often paying up to 30 times more for water than those living in more affluent areas of Nairobi. The water quality was frequently compromised, leading to waterborne diseases that affected health, school attendance, and economic productivity.

Our Clean Water for Kibera initiative began with extensive community consultations to understand the specific challenges and identify sustainable solutions. Working with local leaders and water engineers, we developed a comprehensive approach that combined infrastructure development with community management and health education.

The centerpiece of the project was the installation of five water kiosks strategically located throughout the community, connected to the city's main water supply but managed by trained community members. Each kiosk serves approximately 100 families, providing reliable access to clean, affordable water.

We also installed rainwater harvesting systems at community facilities and trained households on simple water purification methods for additional security during supply interruptions.

The impact has been transformative. Water costs have decreased by 70%, making this essential resource affordable for all. Time spent collecting water has been reduced from hours to minutes, allowing women and children, who traditionally bear this burden, to focus on education, income-generating activities, and family care.

Most significantly, health metrics show a 60% reduction in waterborne diseases within the first year, with corresponding improvements in school attendance and workplace productivity.

The project's sustainability is ensured through a community-managed maintenance fund, with a small portion of water fees set aside for repairs and system upgrades. Local youth have been trained as technicians, creating employment while ensuring prompt attention to any issues.

Clean Water for Kibera demonstrates how targeted infrastructure investments, combined with community empowerment and education, can address fundamental needs while creating pathways for broader social and economic development.