1. Context & Motivation
Ilkeek Aare Primary School (IAPS), located in Suswa, Kenya, faces unreliable access to safe water due to limited infrastructure and increasing demand. Seasonal droughts and insufficient storage capacity affect water availability for over 500 students and staff, with consequences for health, hygiene, and learning conditions. Strengthening water access through sustainable and locally managed systems is essential to ensure continuity of education and improve daily living conditions at the school.
2. Objectives
The project aims to ensure reliable and safe water access for students and staff through a sustainable rainwater harvesting system. In the short term, it focuses on rehabilitating and improving existing infrastructure. In the long term, it seeks to strengthen water security, enhance resilience to climate variability, and support a healthy learning environment through durable, locally maintainable engineering solutions.
3. Current Activities
The project is currently in the implementation and consolidation phase. Phase 1, completed in 2025, included rehabilitation of roof catchments and gutters, installation of first-flush systems, underground HDPE pipelines, and refurbishment of a 450 m³ masonry storage tank. A new tap stand was also constructed. Water quality testing confirmed compliance with national standards. Ongoing activities include documentation, development of maintenance guidelines, and planning for Phase 2, which will expand storage capacity. The project is implemented in close collaboration with local engineers, school representatives.
4. Expected Impact
The project will provide consistent access to safe water for over 500 students and staff, improving hygiene, health, and overall well-being. Reliable water access will support better learning conditions and reduce time spent managing water shortages. By strengthening infrastructure and local capacity for operation and maintenance, the project contributes to long-term resilience against droughts and increasing demand, ensuring sustainable benefits for the school community.
5. How to Get Involved / Next Steps
The next phase focuses on expanding water storage capacity and further strengthening system resilience. Support is welcome through financial contributions, technical collaboration, or partnerships. Individuals and organizations can also follow project progress and share knowledge. Contributing to this project helps ensure continued access to safe water and supports a stable learning environment for the school community.
Project Progress
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