WATER, AFRICA’S GOLD: TEN SHILLINGS FOR FIVE JERRICANS, EVERY DROP COUNTS
In a nation with a population of 50 million,16 million rely on untreated, unsafe water sources for drinking water. The latter is a depiction of Maina Waruru in a publication which spotlights the severity of the problem; the urban poor Kenyan bears the brunt of water scarcity for several reasons: Water cartels, constant rural-urban migration, rapid population increase in cities, coupled with poor planning and management. In the urban setting, water is a factor in poverty. It is less accessible to poor people. The poorer one is, the more unlikely they can afford clean drinking water.
Overview
Our focus today is on Soweto-High Rise. The area geographically fits within the well-known Kibra slums. Administratively, it falls within the Langata constituency.
Given the significant population density and lack of basic infrastructure in the slum area, access to clean water and sanitation was a big challenge for years. Several water projects exist to address the issue, but the lack of water as a resource persists, posing one more challenge for the residents.
There are numerous efforts in place to address the challenge. Efforts by governments, non-profits and other organisations. Some of the water projects are:
- Water Kiosks: Strategically located to offer treated water.
- Water Vending Machines: Automated water vending machines operate on a pay-per-use basis.
- Boreholes: Borehole projects tap underground water sources. Effective during dry periods.
- Water Pipeline Extensions: Efforts exist to extend water pipelines from the supply network to reach specific areas.
- Community-Led Water Projects: Often in partnership with non-profits and local leaders. Such projects involve building water points.
The water situation in the area is still dire. Every drop counts. Sustainable Development Goal 6 sets 2030 as the target to achieve clean water and sanitation for all, including integrated water management systems.
One more collaboration.
After the successful launch, the Kibra-Highrise project became the fifth clean water project under Phase One of collaborating with Proudly Kenyan. Proudly Kenyan is actively involved in community and social outreach programs.
Present during the project launch on May 30, Paul Nguru, the Proudly Kenyan chairman stated. “We are a non-profit involved in community development projects. Sanitation and hygiene in a low-income environment is a priority.”
Amina Chao, a new entrant to join NALSA-Kenya, was the person of the moment as she came through together with her fellow Nairobi Chapter members- Laura Akunga Mureithi Mwenje (Embakasi West), Damaris Nduta (Starehe) and Kui Kiarie (Dagoretti South). In a concise speech, she mentions how the project implementation happened seamlessly for the last seven months and thanked the residents for embracing her during that phase.
“There are four water collection points installed. The project costs upwards of 10 million shillings, so we urge you to take good care of the pipes for those depending on the water,“ Amina explained to the gathering at Kibera Blessed Academy.
The Langata Project, initiated by the previous Langata Representative, Beryl Zoraima, was taken over and brought to a conclusion by the new representative. NALSA-Kenya continues to be an association for individuals from diverse backgrounds, multicultural and apolitical. We work together, not asunder.
Why charge for water?
Households ordinarily pay water bills to the local government. Whenever such an arrangement is a mountainous task, residents suffer. The result is heinous acts like tapping main pipes to steal water. Such acts are reason enough for why such a project is necessary.
To ensure sustainable and long-term continuity of the project, there is a minimal charge of five shillings for every ten jericans. The charge is due to the high electricity costs and overall costs of running the project. The four water collection points will produce an estimated 30,000 litres per day.
The water points are to serve areas such as Mradi up to Soweto High Rise and all neighbouring locations.
Conclusion
The water crisis in low-income dwellings remains a daily struggle despite various efforts initiated.
Collaborations between Proudly Kenyan and NALSA-Kenya play a crucial role in enabling a constant supply of flowing water. The support of the local community and proper maintenance of the water infrastructure is essential for the success and longevity of such projects.
Residents must use water responsibly and practice conservation. Make every drop count.
Addressing the water crisis requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, including residents and local authorities. By prioritizing sustainable water management and embracing conservation practices, the residents can reap the benefits of these water projects and ensure a better future for themselves and future generations. Access to clean water is a basic human right and a fundamental catalyst for improving the overall quality of life in low-income dwellings.
Post by Brian Anyanzwa
Photography by Julia Laval