Nairobi’s Kibera Turns the Tide Against Cholera Through Clean Water and Sanitation Efforts
Kenya’s battle against cholera has reached a critical point, with Nairobi’s informal settlements—particularly Kibera—facing the greatest threat due to overcrowding and poor sanitation. The outbreak, first detected during a wedding festival in October 2022, quickly spread, recording over 7,800 cases and 122 deaths nationwide by March 2023. Nairobi County alone reported nearly 1,200 infections, prompting health authorities to prioritize vaccination and sanitation campaigns. The Ministry of Health, supported by Gavi and other partners, launched a ten-day oral cholera vaccination drive that reached more than 99% of the target population in high-risk zones such as Kibera and Mathare.
Kibera, situated just seven kilometers from Nairobi’s city center, is home to an estimated 250,000 residents living within a tight 2.5-square-kilometer area. Historically, the settlement has struggled with limited access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities, making it a hotspot for waterborne diseases. For years, the infamous flying toilets —plastic bags used in place of latrines—symbolized the area’s sanitation crisis. However, ongoing efforts by the government and organizations like Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) are transforming this reality. Over 20 new ablution blocks have been constructed, and SHOFCO has installed 25 water ATMs providing clean, affordable water to hundreds of households daily. These interventions have drastically reduced open waste disposal and improved hygiene conditions across Kibera’s 13 villages.
Community members now report a noticeable decline in cholera cases. Most villages are cleaner because we have water and toilets. This year, I haven’t heard of any cholera cases in Makina, says Peter Njenga, a Kibera resident. The progress reflects the success of combining vaccination, sanitation infrastructure, and affordable clean water solutions. While challenges remain—especially given Kenya’s recurring droughts and low sanitation coverage—Kibera’s experience offers a model for other informal settlements. Sustained investment in clean water systems and public health awareness is proving to be the key to averting future cholera disasters and securing a healthier, more resilient Nairobi.