Solvatten’s partnership with the Centre for Economic Development Initiatives (CEDI) has brought new light to rural households in Kenya’s Machakos County, where access to clean water remains a daily challenge. As part of the pilot climate project, 36 Solvatten kits were distributed to households in Kinyau and Mitaboni. 

The initiative focused on women-led households with children under five. Among the recipients were young mothers who had dropped out of school and were struggling with both limited resources and high health risks due to unsafe drinking water. 

“The kit is easy to use and heats quickly. I can prepare tea, meals, and bathing water for my children with less effort and no smoke,” said Miriam David, known locally as Mama Stevo. 

CEDI’s existing work in women’s digital literacy and economic empowerment was expanded through this project, integrating Solvatten into a broader sustainability approach. In collaboration with local chiefs, elders, and Community Health Promoters, the project ensured accurate beneficiary mapping and delivered hands-on training on the use and maintenance of the kits. 

Tangible Health and Environmental Benefits 

Households reported dramatic changes within weeks. The reliance on firewood and charcoal has decreased, reducing both indoor air pollution and deforestation pressures. Waterborne diseases have also declined, with families reporting fewer cases of diarrhea, cholera, and other stomach infections. 

One beneficiary, for example, reported that before receiving their Solvatten kit, their household boiled water daily using firewood. With the new system, they now rely on solar energy to treat and heat water, a process they described as both safe and cost-free. 

Solvatten and CEDI’s work in Machakos exemplifies the potential of climate-resilient technology to drive health, equity, and environmental impact in rural, off-grid communities. 

Do you want to launch a similar project in your region? Get in touch with us at hello@solvatten.org – we’d love to connect!