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Background
In the absence of piped water, many informal settlement residents across Africa purchase water from water vendors. The prices they charge can make water unaffordable to the poor. The quality of this water is seldom controlled, and can sometimes result in contamination and disease. To address these challenges, SHOFCO implemented an overhead water distribution system in the Kibera informal settlement. Although SHOFCO was founded in 2004, the first aerial pipe was implemented in 2016.
Approach
SHOFCO extracts ground water from deep boreholes, treats it to make it safe for use, and then distributes it to kiosks via an overhead network of pipes and storage tanks. The elevated distribution system reduces tampering, and the high visibility of leaks ensures that they are repaired swiftly, helping to save water. In 2021, they had 24 water kiosks located throughout Kibera.
Environmental Impact
The overhead water distribution system can be considered more water efficient than underground piping as leaks are immediately visible, and can be fixed swiftly to avoid further loss of water.
Success Factors
Evidence
Evolution
Challenges
Factbox
Founded in
2016
Project type
Founded by
Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO)
Founding Organisation Two
Founding Organisation Three
Operated by
Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO)