In the bustling, low-income area of Kayole in Naivasha, Kenya, Jane Wanja faced a common yet daunting challenge for landlords: managing waste for the 20 households on her plot. With no sewer network available during the construction of her houses, Jane initially opted for a pit latrine to handle the tenants’ waste. However, as the number of tenants grew and waste increased, she had to upgrade to a septic tank.
Despite this upgrade, the septic tank filled up within six months, forcing Jane to discharge grey water into the environment and pay to empty the tank weekly—a costly expense of about £72 per month. This financial burden, coupled with the environmental impact, created a stressful situation for Jane.
In 2023, Kayole experienced a significant change when WSUP and The One Foundation, in partnership with Naivasha Water and Sanitation Company, constructed a simplified sewer network.
After an education session on the functionality of the simplified sewer, Jane eagerly connected her plot to this new system, transforming waste management for her tenants. The results were immediate and overwhelmingly positive. Her tenants now enjoy a cleaner living environment, free from the unsanitary conditions previously caused by overflowing waste.
Moreover, the cost of waste management has significantly decreased. The new sewer connection reduced Jane’s monthly expense to about £40, a cost now shared among her tenants, easing the financial load on everyone. This improvement brought financial relief and ensured compliance with public health regulations, eliminating the frequent notices Jane received for discharging grey water.
“I am relieved and happy with the new sewer system,” Jane shares. “It’s more affordable, and my tenants and I no longer have to worry about the health and environmental hazards that came with the old system.”
Jane Wanja’s story is a testament to how modern infrastructure can dramatically improve living conditions in low-income areas. By connecting to the simplified sewer, she has created a healthier, more sustainable environment for her tenants and herself, showcasing the transformative power of proper sanitation solutions.