Project to turn waste into fertiliser

Business
By Peterson Githaiga | May 31, 2024
Water Institute lecturer William Oduor speaks to government officials and Japanese delegates to Kenya during a tour of the project. [Peterson Githaiga, Standard]

The Japanese government has pledged to spend more than Sh96 million to complete the ongoing sanitation project in Kajiado County.

The project will use new technology to separate human urine and faecal matter that will be later treated to make fertiliser as the end product.

The project, funded by the African Development Bank, is also expected to improve public health and enhance technical skills for youth in the county through sanitation technology transfer.

The project was initiated in 2023 and is expected to provide a comprehensive sanitation solution, including the construction of safe toilets and a waste treatment facility.

Addressing the press after a tour attended by Japanese delegates to Kenya, Water Principal Secretary (PS) Paul Kiprono said the project will play a big role towards environmental sustainability.

The PS, who was also representing the Cabinet Secretary for Water noted that there is need to have a proper waste management system.

He said this will alleviate the risk of environmental pollution, adding that there is need to protect water bodies and air from getting contaminated.

"By ensuring safe disposal of human waste, we are not only reducing environmental pollution, but also preserving our natural resources for future generations," added the PS.

Japan Deputy Vice Minister for International Affairs, Daiho Fujji, said the sanitation project is a transformation initiative with far-reaching impacts.

"Our intention in this particular project is to make a significant difference in the lives of local people and also pave way for a brighter healthier future for them," said Fujji.

William Oduor, a lecturer at the Water Institute said the new technology will be used to separate urine and faecal matter that will be later treated to make fertiliser as the end product.

Arap Moi Primary School Headteacher Rodah Chelanga said access to proper sanitation facilities in schools is a game changer.

"This project will also help promote gender equality in education and also empower our girls to stay in school and achieve their full potential," said Chelanga.

Share this story
Solar power takes centre stage as 250 exhibitors meet in Nairobi
More than 250 exhibitors from 27 countries will gather in Nairobi from Wednesday as Kenya's expanding solar sector drives demand for new energy technologies and investment.
Banks explore AI-powered early warning system to curb bad loans
Kenyan commercial banks are in talks with US technology firm IronOne Technologies to deploy an AI platform designed to predict borrower defaults up to six months in advance.
Kenyan energy firm Lean Energy earns B Corp certification
Founder Dinesh Tembhekar said the certification supports the company's plans to expand its renewable energy model across Africa.
Why Kenya's digital infrastructure is failing to deliver stronger economic growth
A new report says Kenya must complement investment in digital infrastructure with stronger digital platforms, skills and institutions.
EAC Central banks turn to gold in effort to revive single currency by 2031
East African central bank governors have renewed efforts to launch a single regional currency by 2031 while strengthening economic resilience through reserve diversification.
.
RECOMMENDED NEWS