Rurii Primary School has emerged as a beacon of environmental innovation, championing an initiative that harmonizes sanitation, renewable energy, and water conservation. By installing bio-latrines that convert human waste into biogas for cooking, the school not only reduces its reliance on firewood but also protects the Kabatini Aquifer a vital underground water source for Nakuru City.
This initiative is a cornerstone of the Catchment to Tap (C2T) Project, an ambitious program funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and executed by a consortium that includes WWF-Kenya, Egerton University, and the Kenya Water and Sanitation Civil Society Network (KEWASNET). The project exemplifies collaborative conservation efforts to safeguard critical water resources and promote sustainable development.
Protecting the Kabatini Aquifer
The Kabatini Aquifer supplies over 90% of Nakuru City’s water, yet faces increasing threats from contamination and over-extraction. Biodigesters installed at Rurii Primary School mitigate these risks while generating clean energy. This innovative waste management system, developed by Vitens Evides International (VEI), a C2T partner, underscores the potential of technology to address environmental challenges.
Further amplifying these efforts, Nakuru Water and Sanitation Services Company Ltd (NAWASSCO) has been awarded a Ksh 13 million grant under the C2T initiative. This funding supports the protection of critical water sources, including springs, and advances the gazettement of the Kabatini Aquifer to ensure its sustainability.
Towards a “Sponge City” Model
Nakuru County is also embracing the “sponge city” concept, a forward-looking approach that focuses on rainwater harvesting and flood mitigation. By capturing and storing rainwater, the model addresses water scarcity during dry spells and reduces urban flooding risks, offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution for the region’s water challenges.
Sustainable land-use practices complement these strategies. Measures such as terracing, contour farming, and transitioning from subsistence farming to agribusiness aim to reduce soil erosion, improve water retention, and boost agricultural productivity. These initiatives not only conserve water but also enhance food security and alleviate poverty.
Experts Advocate Integrated Water Management
During a media workshop led by WWF-Kenya and its partners, Professor Engineer Japheth Onyando from Egerton University stressed the urgency of integrated groundwater management. He called for collective stewardship of water recharge areas and water towers while advocating for stringent regulatory frameworks to address over-extraction risks, such as ensuring proper borehole spacing.
Similarly, Dr. William Ojwang, a freshwater scientist at WWF-Kenya, underscored the importance of effective water management in Kenya a nation grappling with water scarcity. He highlighted the need to protect catchment areas to secure long-term water availability amid growing population and economic pressures.
Holistic Conservation Efforts
KEWASNET CEO Malesi Shivaji detailed a multi-faceted approach to conserving the Kabatini Aquifer. Key measures include re-vegetating sub-catchments with indigenous tree species, eliminating invasive plants, and promoting alternative livelihoods to minimize farming within the aquifer area. Installing rainwater harvesting systems is another priority, aimed at reducing dependence on groundwater.
Shivaji also emphasized the importance of monitoring and capacity-building initiatives, such as groundwater and rainfall tracking, water quality assessments, and the development of a comprehensive conservation database. These efforts align with a broader commitment to ensuring the aquifer’s sustainable use and protection.
A Blueprint for Sustainability
Rurii Primary School’s bio-latrine initiative represents a pivotal step toward balancing human needs and environmental conservation. By integrating renewable energy, water conservation, and sustainable practices, Nakuru County is setting a precedent for addressing Kenya’s pressing water and energy challenges. Through the collective efforts of stakeholders, the Kabatini Aquifer’s future appears brighter, ensuring its vital resources for generations to come.
