Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) has unveiled a groundbreaking water project worth sh. 500 million, poised to transform the lives of approximately 40,000 residents of Kibera on a daily basis.
The project boasts six boreholes and five water treatment plants that are now operational, ensuring access to clean and safe water.
Dr. Kennedy Odede, Founder and CEO of SHOFCO, emphasized the significance of the initiative during its launch, stating, “This water project will serve 40,000 residents of Kibera with clean and safe water.
Because of poor sanitation in the slums, we have employed an aerial water piping system that ensures water is delivered safely to the final consumer after treatment.”
Spanning 13 kilometers, the project will also cater to the needs of 47 schools and five health centers in Kibera and Lang’ata sub-counties, providing free water.
Dr. Odede, reflecting on his upbringing in Kibera, expressed his pride in witnessing the provision of clean water directly from the source, deeming it immensely powerful.
The distribution of water will be facilitated through a digital system integrated into 52 water kiosks scattered across Kibera informal settlements.
Dr. Odede highlighted the affordability aspect, noting, “We provide water at a cost of sh. 3 when others are selling at sh. 30. This means nobody should get sick because they cannot afford clean water. Water is life.”
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, representing Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, hailed the water project as a game changer in alleviating water scarcity in Kibera.
He affirmed Odinga’s commitment to visit the project, emphasizing its significance to the community.
Moreover, Senator Sifuna emphasized the project’s broader impact, stating, “A project like this will help bridge the gap and ensure our people get clean and reliable water for their daily use. I’m really proud of what SHOFCO is doing.”
Water Cabinet Secretary Zachary Njeru, represented by Mr. Douglas Mutai from the State Department for Water and Sanitation, commended SHOFCO’s efforts, noting the project’s alignment with the ministry’s agenda to provide water for all Kenyan citizens.
SHOFCO’s adoption of an aerial water piping system aims to mitigate vandalism, theft of pipes, and water contamination in Kibera, addressing longstanding challenges perpetuated by water cartels in the area.
This innovative approach reflects SHOFCO’s commitment to ensuring sustainable access to clean water for marginalized communities.
