New technology in over 2,000 schools is cutting water waste, improving billing, and ensuring students have reliable access to clean water.
Photo source:
greenbuildingafrica
Public schools across Kenya have long faced
issues with water access. In many places, outdated pipes, frequent leaks, and
inaccurate billing made it difficult for schools to keep clean water running.
Nearly 45 percent of treated water in the country is lost before it reaches the
end user, often due to leaks or infrastructure problems.
To address this, the Ministry of Water and
Sanitation, working with UNICEF and local governments, launched a nationwide
plan in early 2025. The goal is to install smart water meters in more than
2,000 public schools. These meters automatically track usage, detect leaks, and
provide accurate data for billing, helping schools take control of their water
supply and reducing waste.
This initiative is part of Kenya’s broader
strategy to modernize public infrastructure and use digital tools to improve
essential services.
These meters use a simple setup of water flow
sensors, mobile connectivity, and a digital dashboard. Together, they:
This means schools only pay for what they use,
and leaks can be spotted before they become costly.
The results are already clear:
In Bomet County, a pilot version of this system
helped reduce water loss from over 60 percent to under 40 percent, saving both
money and resources.
This rollout is just the beginning. Kenya plans
to extend similar systems to clinics, public offices, and eventually homes. By
starting in schools, the country is creating a model that is easy to scale and
quick to implement in other sectors.
It is a practical step toward tackling water
losses, improving service delivery, and ensuring long-term water security.
Please subscribe to have unlimited access to our innovations.