Kibra is the largest slum in Africa. According to the World Health Organization, the amount of water
needed for domestic consumption varies between 50- 100 litres per capita per day . Residents in Kibera
are a long way off from achieving this recommended threshold, resulting from a poor supply of water.
Access to clean water is difficult as residents have to walk long distances to reach water points. This
problem is compounded further by poor infrastructure where raw sewage and contaminated garbage flow
through the slum and into nearby river thus polluting available water
Furthermore, residents, mostly women and school-going girls, have to walk long distances to get to a
water collection point, and at times have to queue up for hours to access water. Not only does the lack of
clean water have an immense impact on the health of Kibera’s inhabitants, but takes time away from girls
who could be in school learning. Also, the absence of toilet facilities and the open sewers have
exacerbated their plight. As an array of pipes snake their way into the slum, some burst and others are
vandalised.
We have set in place several approaches to positively responding to the water and sanitation crisis:
(b) Youths’ empowerment-The Centre of love hosted a soccer tournament in April 2024 that
attracted over 100 youths. The youths participate in the games and as well on water, sanitation
and hygiene.
Our Achievements
Improved health – Over 2,000 families have accessed clean toilets, clean and safe water for
consumption and other household needs. This has resulted to improved health of families and
general well-being.
Improved girls’ education – School- going girls around the Centre of Love have more time to
focus on their studies due to ease of access of water and shortened time spent on water queues.
Community water champions-Over 300 women and youths have been trained on WASH areas
and are active WASH champions around Kibra.