Meeting Basic Needs in a Rapidly Urbanizing Community: A Water, Sanitation, and Solid Waste Assessment

Ruiru, Kenya is a rapidly growing city, facing the challenges of urbanization and unplanned development. National water reforms have put pressure on local governments to take responsibility for provision of services related to water and sanitation. The Municipal Council of Ruiru is currently working with national and local partners to develop plans for improved services for the community. The objective of the workshop was to assess the current situation in Ruiru with regard to water, sanitation and solid waste services and to provide recommendations in the context of national water reforms. To that end, the SIPA team used a literature review, data collection and analysis, key informant interviews with the Municipal Council, borehole operators, regional service boards, local water companies and other experts, as well as a survey of 100 households representing the five wards in Ruiru.