Community Water Access Project – Mathare

WATERisLIFE implemented a transformative water project in Mathare, one of Nairobi’s oldest informal settlements. The initiative was part of the Gratitude Trips program, inspired by a fundraising event in New York led by Corina Weikl, CEO of BottleN30 and member of the WATERisLIFE board.

Before the project, residents had water access only two days a week. Through the installation of solar panels and a high-capacity water pump, daily access was achieved—dramatically improving living conditions. Although the water remained non-potable, the next phase included installing filtration technology.

Plans to implement the black box filtration system were paused following community feedback opposing water sales. WATERisLIFE responded by opening dialogue and shifting focus to community-led management, particularly through the training of local women leaders. Trust-building and inclusive governance remained key pillars in moving forward.