WSUP Kenya, in collaboration with Malindi Water and Sewerage Company (MAWASCO), the County Government of Malindi, and SATO Lixil, successfully planted over 300 Ashok trees at the site of the proposed Malindi Feacal Sludge Treatment Plant.
This initiative is a significant component of WSUP Kenya’s commitment to climate resilience and sustainable urban sanitation solutions. The Ashok trees are known to thrive in various soil conditions, improving air quality, providing shade, and stabilizing soil, which is essential for the treatment plant’s infrastructure. Through these trees, this initiative supports climate change mitigation by absorbing carbon dioxide and cooling the environment.
The tree-planting activity is part of a broader effort to develop and implement a city-wide inclusive sanitation (CWIS) plan for Malindi, Watamu, and surrounding peri-urban areas. The plan aligns with CWIS principles by promoting a healthier, more sustainable environment and addressing gender-responsive needs. Improved sanitation infrastructure benefits all community members, particularly women and girls, by providing safer, more accessible facilities.
“By planting these trees, we are not only enhancing the environmental sustainability of the treatment plant but also contributing to the broader climate resilience of the region. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to implementing effective and inclusive sanitation solutions that benefit both the community and the environment,” said Ms. Lilian Omoga, WSUP Kenya Programme Manager, Malindi and Mombasa.
Ashok trees thrive in various soil conditions, improving air quality, providing shade, and stabilizing soil, which is essential for the treatment plant’s infrastructure.
Once completed, the Malindi Feacal Sludge Treatment Plant will have a capacity of 95 m³/day of sludge with significant redundancy, ensuring robust and reliable operations. Additionally, the plant will be paired with a waste-to-value facility capable of producing 1,200 tons per month of industrial fuel in the form of briquettes. This innovative approach manages waste effectively and generates valuable resources, contributing to the local economy and reducing environmental impact.
The CWIS approach adopted by WSUP Kenya and its partners recognizes the varied needs of urban residents. Unlike traditional one-size-fits-all solutions, CWIS offers a range of tailored options, including on-site sanitation systems, sewers, and centralized and decentralized facilities.
WSUP’s role in Malindi’s CWIS plan extends beyond infrastructure development. It involves creating an enabling environment through policy development, enhancing technical capacity, and strengthening financial resources. By working closely with MAWASCO, the County Government, and other stakeholders, WSUP aims to overcome market constraints and implement sustainable sanitation solutions that will impact the community.