Clean Water and Its Role in Preventing Diseases in Kenya

Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, yet millions of people in Kenya still struggle to obtain safe drinking water. Contaminated water sources contribute to the spread of diseases that can affect individuals and entire communities. By improving access to clean water and investing in education, Kenya can significantly reduce the prevalence of waterborne illnesses and improve public health outcomes. At Sollay Kenyan Foundation, we are passionate about working to make Kenya a healthier place to live and thrive.

How Water and Disease Are Linked

Waterborne diseases are some of the leading health challenges in Kenya. Many rural and urban populations rely on untreated water from rivers, lakes, and wells. This water can be contaminated with bacteria, parasites, and chemicals that are unsafe to consume. Some of the most common diseases associated with unsafe water include:

• Cholera: Cholera is a severe diarrheal disease caused by ingesting water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae bacteria. Outbreaks occur frequently in Kenya, especially in overcrowded areas with poor sanitation.
• Typhoid Fever: This is caused by Salmonella bacteria, and it spreads through contaminated food and water. Typhoid fever can lead to high fever, weakness, and gastrointestinal issues.
• Dysentery: Dysentery is a severe form of diarrhea caused by Shigella bacteria or amoebas. It is often linked to poor hygiene and sanitation practices, as well as a lack of clean water.
• Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia): This parasitic infection is contracted through direct contact with contaminated freshwater. It causes severe organ damage over time.

What Makes It Hard to Access Clean Water?

Kenya faces several obstacles in ensuring universal access to safe drinking water. Currently, only 59% of Kenyans have access to safe drinking water, and only 29% of Kenyans have access to improved sanitation facilities. These challenges include:

• Lack of Safe Water Sources: Prolonged droughts and climate change have led to reduced water availability, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Additionally, flooding can contaminate water sources that were once clean water.
• Poor Sanitation Infrastructure: Many communities lack proper sewage systems, which increases the risk of contamination for all water sources.
• Water Pollution: Industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and improper waste disposal can all contaminate surface and groundwater sources.
• Rapid Urbanization: The growth of informal settlements in cities has outpaced the development of water and sanitation services, leading to overcrowding and unsanitary conditions.

How Can Clean Water Access Be Improved?

Investment in Clean Water Infrastructure

The government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) must prioritize the construction of wells, boreholes, and piped water systems in underserved areas. Water treatment plants should also be expanded to provide clean drinking water to both urban and rural populations. For help drilling a well, visit Living Water International or call +254 733 340155. To request a water project, visit Well Aware and fill out the contact form.

Education for Kenyans

Educating communities about the importance of boiling water, using water purification methods, and maintaining proper hygiene can significantly reduce disease transmission. There are many efforts being made to teach Kenyans about sanitation and how to ensure they are consuming clean water.

Improved Sanitation

Proper waste disposal and the construction of adequate sanitation facilities, such as latrines and sewage treatment plants, can further prevent water contamination. Investing in sanitation that can stand up to flooding is also critical for areas that are prone to flooding and clean water contamination in the aftermath. For resources, visit UNICEF Kenya and the Ministry of Health.

Help Protect Kenyan Access to Clean Water

At the Sollay Kenyan Foundation, we believe that every Kenyan’s life matters. Your life matters, and you matter! Sollay Kenyan Foundation is a non-profit that cares about working with communities throughout Kenya to help children, families, and communities receive equal access to the primary care and focused specialty care that they need to thrive. With your support and the support of our existing donors and volunteers, we hope to help the people of Kenya realize their full potential and thrive. To make a donation and learn more, click here.