Nairobi County is actively seeking partnerships to enhance sewer and sanitation services in informal settlements, aiming to eliminate open defecation by 2030.
Mario Kainga, the County Director in charge of Water and Sanitation, emphasized the need for collaboration between non-state actors and government entities at both the county and national levels. He noted that current sewer and sanitation services only reach 60% of the population.
“We are aware that investments in sewer and sanitation are not adequate to serve all people, especially those in informal areas,” Kainga stated. He added that the county is mapping out partners and establishing a coordination framework to avoid duplication of services.
Kainga highlighted that both national and county governments are formulating a policy to guide interventions aimed at achieving affordable, reasonable, and safe sanitation infrastructure for all, as outlined in the Constitution.
His remarks came during the launch of a partnership with Fresh Life in Kibra, a project focused on developing citywide, inclusive, and financially sustainable sanitation solutions.
David Manore, acting technical director at Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company, welcomed the partnership, stating it will significantly improve sanitation access for residents in informal settlements. “We are looking forward to extending these kinds of partnerships to all our informal settlements in the city,” he said.
Anthony Mulinge, managing director of Fresh Life, underscored the urgent need for improved sanitation in areas like Kibera. “There is still a huge need in terms of people who do not have access. This is why we have partnered with the county government to provide solutions across Nairobi,” he explained, noting similar projects in Mukuru kwa Njenga, Mukuru kwa Ruben, Mathare, and Viwandani.
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