Effort to rebuild washroom collapsed during May 2024 flooding turns into potential model for Kibera villages

In May 2024, during the heavy flooding in Nairobi, existing infrastructure in Kibera was badly damaged. For example, the Mlang’o Ndogo neighborhood’s washroom collapsed, leaving over 150 adults and children without functional toilets or bathing spaces. 

 

Shortly after the flood, cases of cholera and typhoid began spiking among children so Kijiji Solutions immediately started a fundraising campaign to help residents. 

 

Thanks to generous donations, Kijiji Solutions was able to supply food and blankets, provide temporary shelter and began rebuilding the sanitary facilities.

 

Now, three months later, the toilets are operational again and running water is available for the first time in the wash stalls. An initial $1000 will enable us to add handwashing stations, a water tank, drinking fountain, lighting, water heaters and hand laundry.

 

Our initiative was noted by the local Village Chief who suggested we turn what we have learned into a model for hygienic infrastructure in the Village an beyond (see sidebar).

​

Due to resource limitations, most toilets in Kibera remain unhealthy pit latrines despite the presence of nearby sewer lines. Few have running water. Fewer still have hot water. And virtually none have handwashing stations which are documented to reduce water-borne disease by over 85%. 

 

Construction and professional services are very affordable in Kibera. We’ve accomplished most of the project with a budget of only $2500. 

​​​

Please consider a contribution of any amount. On our GoFundMe campaing  or our Donate Page!

​

​​