In Nairobi’s Shauri Moyo estate, where sanitation challenges once plagued the community, a transformative initiative is reshaping lives. Fresh Life Toilets, a pioneering sanitation solution, has addressed the dire need for hygienic facilities in densely populated informal settlements, bringing hope and improved living conditions.
Historically, Shauri Moyo faced severe sanitation issues, with public toilets managed by the Nairobi City Council falling into disrepair. Residents, like those in many other slums, struggled with facilities that became breeding grounds for diseases due to lack of maintenance. The inadequate state of these communal toilets was more than just an inconvenience; it posed significant health risks, particularly for children vulnerable to waterborne diseases from contaminated water sources.
The introduction of Fresh Life Toilets marked a significant shift. These innovative, container-based sanitation systems replaced the outdated and poorly maintained public facilities. Equipped with handwashing facilities and a design that separates urine and faecal waste, Fresh Life Toilets tackle issues of odour and disease, offering a cleaner and more dignified solution.
Fresh Life Toilets have brought substantial changes to the community. One resident, who now manages her own Fresh Life Toilet, has witnessed the positive impact firsthand. By charging a monthly fee, she has turned the sanitation project into a sustainable business, providing improved facilities to over 20 households. Despite the higher cost compared to former City Council rates, the value of cleaner and more reliable sanitation justifies the expense.
Residents of Mukuru Kwa Reuben also report significant improvements in health and sanitation since the adoption of Fresh Life Toilets. The facilities’ cleanliness and reliability, even in adverse weather conditions, stand in stark contrast to the traditional public toilets, which often suffered from flooding and poor maintenance.
The benefits of Fresh Life Toilets extend beyond immediate hygiene improvements. They contribute to environmental sustainability and economic empowerment. By providing container-based sanitation where traditional sewer systems are impractical, the initiative addresses the challenges of waste management in informal settlements. The toilets separate urine and stool into different containers, reducing odours and preventing the mixing of waste. This design helps maintain a more sanitary environment and reduces the risk of environmental contamination.
Anthony Mulinge, Managing Director of Fresh Life Toilets, highlights the holistic approach of the initiative. With a focus on areas where sewer systems are either too costly or unfeasible, the project includes regular waste collection and safe disposal practices. Pit emptiers, organized into community-based groups, are trained to handle waste responsibly and are crucial in maintaining the effectiveness of the sanitation system.
The initiative operates in major cities such as Nairobi, Kisumu, Eldoret, and Mombasa, providing over 7,000 toilets and serving approximately 280,000 people daily. The revenue generated helps cover operational costs and supports local employment, further boosting the community’s economic resilience.
Maintaining the cleanliness of the toilets is a priority for many users, who actively oversee the facilities’ upkeep. Regular waste collection and the use of non-sewered systems prevent waste build-up and ensure a more hygienic environment. Despite some challenges, such as the discontinuation of cleaning supplies and varying user opinions on the waste disposal process, the overall impact remains positive.
The waste collected by Fresh Life Toilets is processed by Regen Organics into valuable products like insect protein, oil, and organic fertiliser. This not only addresses waste management but also creates economic opportunities from the by-products of sanitation.
For residents of informal settlements, Fresh Life Toilets represent a significant improvement in health, dignity, and overall well-being. By providing a reliable and clean sanitation solution, this initiative is setting a new standard for sanitation in Nairobi’s slums, offering a brighter future for communities that have long struggled with inadequate facilities.
