Transforming Sanitation in Malindi: A Collaborative Milestone

13 Dec 2024

For additional insights on this collaborative project, explore Malindi Water & Sewerage Company’s perspective by visiting their blog here.

Since 2019, we have been thrilled to be part of the City-Wide Inclusive Sanitation (CWIS) journey in Malindi, where innovative solutions are reshaping the region’s sanitation landscape. As a proud sub-consultant to Malindi Water & Sewerage Company (MAWASCO), we’ve partnered with key players to deliver a project that represents more than just infrastructure—it is a blueprint for scalable, sustainable, and impactful sanitation solutions.

Originally a $1 million initiative, the Malindi Treatment Plant Project has been reimagined and expanded to an $8 million endeavor serving both Malindi and Watamu. This leap in scope, which Sanivation supported on the design with Design Master Plan (DMP) in 2021, represents our commitment to pushing boundaries in sanitation and delivering meaningful, lasting impacts.

Catalyzing Change for Malindi

MAWASCO, with support from the World Bank, saw the potential to make the project bigger and more impactful. Sanivation and DMP were then entrusted with the redesign to realize this potential.

The tangible impacts of the Malindi project are already evident, and we’re only just beginning. The expanded treatment plant will serve thousands of residents across Malindi and Watamu, improving public health and contributing to environmental sustainability. Beyond the immediate benefits of safe waste treatment, the project will have long-term ripple effects, including:

Increased capacity for waste management: Hundreds of tons of faecal sludge will be safely treated, protecting the local environment.
CO2 emissions reduction: By turning waste into solid fuelresources, the plant will contribute significantly to carbon offsets, helping to mitigate climate impact.
Community health and safety: Improved sanitation facilities canwill reduce disease transmission and enhance residents' overall quality of life.

By working as part of a larger consortium that includes the DMP team and SGI Studio, we have introduced waste-to-value innovations, ensuring that the new system doesn’t just solve immediate sanitation needs but contributes to environmental and economic benefits. This is what makes the Malindi project a flagship effort in non-sewered sanitation.

Navigating Challenges to Deliver Results

As a consortium, we have been steadfast in ensuring that this project meets and exceeds expectations. Challenges have naturally emerged—from operational delays to complex decision-making processes. Still, we’ve used each obstacle to reinforce our dedication to quality and long-term impact.

We are delighted to see how collectively our commitment to operational excellence and waste-to-value systems has resonated with stakeholders. From local leaders to international funders like the World Bank, the shared enthusiasm for creating a sustainable sanitation model has kept the momentum strong. We believe that delays are not just hurdles but a valuable opportunity to ensure that the infrastructure is robust and delivers lasting benefits to the people of Malindi.

Looking Forward: A Growing Legacy of Impact

Priscilla, the head of sanitation at MAWASCO, has long championed sanitation. Her leadership and vision have ensured that this project remains a critical priority for the region. Together with MAWASCO and our partners, we are equipping the community with the tools and knowledge to maintain these gains well into the future.

This project represents the future of sanitation in fast-growing cities like Malindi. It’s about collaboration, innovation, and sustainable solutions with a far-reaching impact. With the continued support of stakeholders at every level—local and international, public and private—the project is well-positioned to serve as a model for similar initiatives across the continent.

The excitement around this project comes from its potential to showcase how integrated, scalable sanitation solutions can drive significant environmental and social benefits. The World Bank’s enthusiastic support underscores the broader importance of initiatives like these for Malindi and the global conversation on waste-to-value solutions.

Mr. Felix Wanje from MAWASCO eloquently stated, “We have seen a positive impact on the community and environment. Today, people can access good toilets instead of going to the forests. This makes them healthier and is good for the environment.” These words capture the essence of what we aim to achieve: a healthier, more sustainable future through the power of innovative sanitation solutions.

Partner with Us on Your Project

This project is a step forward for Malindi and Watamu - a statement of what can be achieved when stakeholders share a bold vision. Together, we’re turning challenges into opportunities, ensuring the Malindi project leaves a lasting legacy for years. Let’s continue to collaborate, innovate, and achieve excellence in enhancing sanitation for all.

Have questions? Contact us on info@sanivation.com for more information.