Sustainable Water Solutions in Rural Communities
Summary
Implementing rainwater harvesting systems in drought-prone regions, providing clean water access to over 5,000 people and reducing water-borne diseases by 60%.
Full Story
The WaterWise Initiative has been working in drought-prone regions of Kenya since 2018, implementing innovative rainwater harvesting systems that are both affordable and sustainable.
Our approach combines traditional knowledge with modern technology, creating systems that can be maintained by local communities with minimal external support. Each system collects rainwater from rooftops and other surfaces, filters it through a multi-stage process, and stores it in underground tanks that minimize evaporation.
To date, we have installed 120 systems across 15 villages, providing reliable access to clean water for over 5,000 people. This has had a dramatic impact on health outcomes, with local clinics reporting a 60% reduction in water-borne diseases.
Beyond health improvements, the time saved from water collection (previously requiring up to 4 hours daily, primarily by women and girls) has enabled increased school attendance and economic activities. Local women have formed a cooperative that maintains the systems and provides training to neighboring communities.
Theory of Change
Inputs
- Rainwater harvesting technology
- Local materials
- Community training
- Technical expertise
Activities
- System installation
- Community workshops
- Maintenance training
- Water quality testing
Outputs
- 120 rainwater systems installed
- 15 villages reached
- 200 community members trained
Outcomes
- 5,000+ people with water access
- 60% reduction in water-borne diseases
- Increased school attendance
Impact
- Improved health and wellbeing
- Community resilience to drought
- Women's economic empowerment
Network Map
Tags
Impact Highlights
Collaborators
- Kenya Water Trust
- Kitui County Government
- Global Water Alliance