The Demographic and Health Survey 2014 showed that 30% of Kenyans lack access to clean water, and nearly half either lack access to a toilet facility or have a non-improved toilet. A non-improved toilet is a public or shared toilet that is used by more than one household. They may also use a bucket and have to pour the excrement in places not designated for such use, for example in Mukuru excrement can be poured into the river. In slum areas, such as Kibera, and also in underserved rural areas, almost 90% of the population, including youth and their families, reportedly do not have piped water and use pit latrines. This poor sanitation environment exposes the youth and children to health hazards such as infections by various diseases. Water-related diseases & associated conditions are the leading causes of sickness in children under 5 years, with the leading causes of death being pneumonia and diarrhea.
HWWK designs and implements programs that improve access to clean water and sanitary facilities in areas where it works to reduce water-borne diseases and improve the health of youth and children in their communities.