A resurgence in ferrocement water tank construction is sweeping through Kenya’s arid and semi-arid regions, providing households with a cost-effective and durable method for harvesting and storing rainwater. These cylindrical tanks, constructed from a thin layer of cement plaster reinforced with layers of wire mesh, offer significant advantages over traditional plastic or masonry tanks—they are considerably cheaper to build than concrete tanks, more durable and rodent-proof than plastic alternatives, and can be constructed using locally available materials and skills. With capacities ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 liters, these tanks are enabling families to capture and store precious rainwater during the rainy seasons for use throughout extended dry periods.
The construction process has been adapted for accessibility in rural areas, with numerous NGOs and government programs training local artisans in the specialized technique. The method involves building a framework of wire mesh and steel reinforcement, which is then plastered on both sides with a rich cement-sand mortar to create a watertight shell. Unlike larger concrete tanks that require expensive formwork and machinery, ferrocement tanks can be built by small teams with basic tools, creating employment opportunities while addressing water scarcity. The tanks have proven particularly resilient in Kenya’s climate, with many installations from a decade ago still functioning perfectly, demonstrating their long-term value compared to plastic tanks that degrade under UV exposure and are vulnerable to damage by livestock or falling branches.
The long-term impact of widespread ferrocement tank adoption extends beyond household water security to broader community resilience. As climate change makes seasonal rains more erratic and unpredictable, the ability to store water during brief, intense rainfall events becomes increasingly critical. County governments in water-scarce regions are now subsidizing ferrocement tank construction as a climate adaptation strategy, recognizing that every liter stored reduces dependence on distant, often unreliable water sources. The technology’s scalability—from small household units to larger community installations—makes it adaptable to various needs and budgets. This appropriate technology solution demonstrates how combining simple engineering principles with local capacity building can create sustainable water security in some of Kenya’s most vulnerable regions.