In a world where almost half the population still lacks access to safe sanitation, the contribution of women in developing inclusive water and sanitation systems is more important than ever. Yet, women account for only 18% of the global water and sanitation utility workforce, highlighting significant issues around gender equity, leadership, and representation. In Kenya’s capital, one inspiring woman is changing that narrative.
Esther Muthoni, Regional Technical Coordinator at Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company, is not only ensuring that water reaches some of the city’s most underserved areas—she’s also part of a growing movement that is reshaping what leadership means in the WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) sector.
As part of WSUP’s ongoing Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) advocacy, and in line with the World Bank’s Equal Aqua platform, we are shining a light on female leaders from our partner organizations. These stories aim to amplify women’s voices, explore the barriers and opportunities they face, and inspire a more inclusive future for WASH. In this feature, Esther shares her journey, the lessons she’s learned, and the progress—and challenges—that define her work at the forefront of water and sanitation service delivery in Nairobi.
Esther, can you tell us about your journey into the WASH sector? What motivated you to pursue this path, and what has influenced your career so far? From a young age, I realized that access to clean, reliable water was more than just a convenience—it was essential for dignity, health, and opportunity. This understanding sparked my passion for water and led me to study Water and Environmental Engineering at Egerton University. My time at Egerton was both challenging and rewarding. Being one of the few women in my class came with its own set of challenges, yet it fueled my determination to succeed. The program provided a solid foundation in the technical and environmental aspects of water systems, but more importantly, it broadened my perspective on how water impacts public health, education, and gender equality. After graduating, I joined Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company, which has been an enlightening experience. Working in a large urban utility illuminated the complexities of water management in a rapidly growing city where infrastructure often lags behind demand. I’ve participated in both engineering and community outreach efforts, and I’ve come to understand that sustainable solutions require more than just pipes and pumps—they also need a people-centered approach. What has most shaped my journey is the realization that real impact stems from collaboration: connecting engineers with communities, engaging policymakers with service providers, and especially ensuring representation across genders. As a woman in this traditionally male-dominated field, I am passionate about mentoring young girls and encouraging them to explore careers in STEM and WASH. I believe that our unique perspectives can drive inclusive and lasting change.
Could you describe your current role and how it helps improve access to water and sanitation services for underserved or low-income communities? As a Regional Technical Coordinator assigned to Nairobi’s informal settlements, my role centers on enhancing access to safe water and sanitation for low-income communities. I oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of infrastructure such as water kiosks, prepaid meters, and simplified sewer systems—solutions specifically tailored for high-density, unplanned areas. Beyond the technical side, I actively engage with communities to ensure that solutions truly address local needs and gain social acceptance. I also advocate within Nairobi Water to prioritize investments in underserved areas. This role goes beyond infrastructure; it’s about fostering equity, dignity, and ensuring that every resident, regardless of their income or where they live, has access to clean water and sanitation.
In your opinion, what unique value do women bring to the WASH sector, especially in leadership and community-facing roles? Women bring invaluable perspectives to the WASH sector through their lived experiences, particularly regarding water collection and household sanitation. In leadership, they champion inclusive, community-driven solutions. In technical roles, they offer diverse approaches to problem-solving, and in community engagement, they build trust and improve service uptake. Moreover, their presence paves the way for the next generation, helping to balance and enhance the WASH workforce.
What obstacles do women still encounter when trying to enter, remain in, or advance in the WASH sector in your country? How have you navigated these challenges? Women in Kenya’s WASH sector face obstacles such as gender stereotypes, limited mentorship opportunities, workplace bias, and the struggle to balance work and family responsibilities. I have managed to overcome these hurdles through strong mentorship, demonstrating my abilities through consistent effort, and maintaining visibility. Now, I mentor other women and advocate for more inclusive environments—because real change begins with support and representation.
How has your organisation—or others you’ve worked with—supported gender equality? Are there any specific initiatives or policies that stand out? Nairobi Water, Athi Water, and the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) have taken steps to support gender equality. Nairobi Water has worked with programs like Kenya Integrated Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Project (KIWASH) to develop Gender Equity Action Plans, offer training, and promote inclusive hiring. Athi Water’s strategic plan includes gender mainstreaming aligned with national policies like Vision 2030. IEK promotes gender equity through advocacy, policy integration, and support for women in engineering. These efforts aim to create a more inclusive WASH sector by increasing women’s participation in technical roles, leadership, and decision-making.
How does Nairobi Water promote gender-inclusive policies and practices in your context? Nairobi Water promotes gender-inclusive policies in informal settlements by ensuring women actively participate in community consultations, which shapes service delivery to meet their needs. As a Regional Technical Coordinator, I support the implementation of Gender Equity Action Plans that include training and recruitment focused on increasing women’s roles in technical and leadership positions. The utility also partners with programs like KIWASH to embed gender awareness in projects. These practices help make water and sanitation services more accessible and responsive to women, who are often primary users and managers of household water.
What role do mentorship, professional networks, or capacity-building programs play in empowering more women in this field? Can you share a personal example? Mentorship, professional networks, and capacity-building programs have been key in empowering women like me. Growing up in Central Kenya, I didn’t see many women in leadership or technical roles. But at Egerton University, I joined a mentorship program for young women in science, and it changed everything. My mentor guided me on career choices and built my confidence. Through networking events, I met professionals who later connected me to internships. Capacity-building workshops also helped me gain practical skills. Without these opportunities, I wouldn’t have had the courage or resources to pursue my dreams in this field.
How can a more gender-diverse workforce strengthen innovation, resilience, or service delivery in WASH, particularly in informal settlements or climate-vulnerable areas? A more gender-diverse workforce in WASH can greatly strengthen innovation and service delivery, especially in Nairobi’s informal settlements like Kibera or Mathare. Women and girls are often the most affected by poor water and sanitation services, so involving them brings real, lived experiences into decision-making. When women are part of WASH teams, they introduce practical, community-based solutions—like safer toilet designs or water points closer to homes. Gender diversity also builds resilience by ensuring a wider range of voices are heard in planning for climate impacts like floods or droughts. It leads to more inclusive, sustainable, and responsive WASH systems.
What systemic or cultural shifts are needed to accelerate women’s participation in WASH leadership? How can utilities, governments, and civil society help drive these changes? To accelerate women’s participation in WASH leadership, we need systemic and cultural shifts that challenge gender stereotypes and promote equal opportunities. This includes enforcing gender-inclusive policies, offering leadership training for women, and creating safe, supportive work environments. Utilities and governments must prioritize gender equity in hiring and promotions, while civil society can raise awareness and support grassroots women leaders. In communities, changing cultural norms that limit women’s roles is key. Mentorship, scholarships, and the visibility of female role models can inspire more women to lead. Together, these efforts create a pipeline of empowered women ready to shape WASH systems.
What advice would you give to young women or girls who aspire to build a career in the WASH sector? To young women and girls dreaming of a career in the WASH sector: believe in your voice and your value. Start by learning as much as you can—whether in school, through mentorship, or through community projects. Don’t shy away from technical roles or leadership opportunities. Seek out networks of women in WASH; they’ll guide and support you. Challenges will come, especially in male-dominated spaces, but stay focused and persistent. Your perspective is powerful—especially in solving real issues in communities like ours. The WASH sector needs your ideas, passion, and leadership to create lasting, inclusive change. Keep going—you belong here.