With support from The One Foundation in 2020, Nairobi’s first Simplified Sewer System (SSS) was successfully piloted in Kenya’s capital city, demonstrating an innovative, affordable, and sustainable approach to urban sanitation.
SSS uses smaller-diameter pipes and simplified treatment processes, enabling cost-effective expansion of sewer networks in dense and rapidly growing cities.
TOF’s funding helped launch the pilot, which later leveraged additional investment from the African Development Bank and established SSS as the preferred model for future projects. Following its success in Nairobi, the approach was replicated in Naivasha (the Flower capital of Kenya), expanding access to improved sanitation for more communities.
Implemented in partnership with WSUP, NAIVAWASCO, Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company, and the Ministry of Water, the initiative is now informing national policy and aims to increase sewer coverage from 16% to 40% within five years.
The project demonstrates how strategic funding, innovation, and strong partnerships can transform urban sanitation, improving health, dignity, and resilience.