In the quiet community of Mambrui in Malindi, Sammy Mwarandu works as a trained artisan, supporting families in accessing improved sanitation by installing modern, affordable, and sustainable toilets.
With WSUP training focused on innovative SATO toilets, Sammy can now build three toilets in a single day. This translates to increased productivity and significantly improved income—tripling his daily earnings from traditional latrines.
“Before, constructing a toilet would take me two days. But now, with the new SATO toilets and the skills I’ve learned from WSUP, I can install three toilets in a single day. I used to make KES 300 per latrine using traditional methods. With the new training and SATO products, I can install at least three toilets daily and go home with KES 1200,” Sammy shares with a proud smile.
Sammy has been instrumental in helping homeowners transition from old pit latrines to more hygienic SATO toilets. These modern toilets are designed to eliminate flies and odours, creating a cleaner and safer environment.
By educating his clients, Sammy empowers them to make informed choices for their health and well-being. He conducts workshops where he explains the importance of proper sanitation, the benefits of SATO toilets, and how to maintain them. This ensures the toilets’ longevity and promotes a culture of hygiene in the community.
Sammy is one of over 100 artisans in Malindi who will benefit from WSUP Kenya’s training. This training is part of a partnership with Malindi Water and Sewerage Company (MAWASCO), the County Government of Malindi, and SATO Lixil. WSUP provides technical expertise and support, ensuring that the training is effective and that the artisans are equipped with the necessary skills to implement the sanitation program. This initiative is part of a comprehensive total sanitation program beyond physical construction. It includes capacity building and educational follow-up to promote behavioural change towards safe sanitation practices.
“Our mission to transform cities and benefit millions who lack access to water and sanitation is exemplified in our support of local artisans. This initiative enables us to work alongside local providers, empowering them to develop their services and reach low-income communities, reflecting our commitment to community development,” said Ms. Lilian Omoga, WSUP Kenya Programme Manager for Malindi and Mombasa.
WSUP’s approach involves working closely with communities to construct household latrines and enclosed (walled and roofed) toilet facilities, providing privacy and convenience. The impact of WSUP’s work is evident in the stories of artisans like Sammy, whose enhanced skills and increased income drive positive change in Malindi.