Athi River launches WASH drive
More than 8,000 factory workers in Athi River are benefiting from a new water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) initiative aimed at improving access to essential services and promoting healthier workplaces.
The programme is being implemented by WSUP Kenya in partnership with IDH, SOKO Community Trust – Kujuwa Initiative, with support from VF Corporation.
The initiative extends beyond industrial facilities, targeting an additional 12,500 residents living in surrounding low-income communities. The project seeks to address gaps in access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene services while improving the wellbeing and dignity of workers and community members.
As part of the programme, Mavoko Water and Sanitation Company (MAVWASCO) is receiving support to strengthen its operational systems and improve service delivery. The interventions include establishing a dedicated sanitation unit to enhance the utility’s capacity to respond to sanitation needs in factories and neighbouring communities.
The initiative is also placing emphasis on menstrual health and hygiene, with training designed to address stigma and improve awareness among workers and community members. Participants are being encouraged to adopt sustainable menstrual hygiene practices, including the use of reusable menstrual products.
Stakeholders say the approach demonstrates the importance of integrating water, sanitation and hygiene services into workplace and community development programmes.
By improving water access, strengthening sanitation systems and promoting better hygiene practices, the initiative is expected to contribute to improved health, dignity and gender equality among factory workers and residents.
The project also highlights the link between workplace WASH and wider community wellbeing, showing how investments made within industrial areas can generate benefits beyond factory boundaries.
Through collaboration between private-sector partners, community organisations and the local water utility, the programme aims to create stronger and more sustainable WASH systems that can continue serving Athi River’s growing population and industrial workforce
