UNICEF partners with Japan gov't to improve water and sanitation services in Kenya

UNICEF and the Government of Japan have announced a new partnership aimed at improving access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in Kenya’s border areas and Nairobi’s informal settlements.

The three-year initiative was launched in close collaboration with the Government of Kenya. The project will leverage Japanese sanitation and water supply innovations and global leadership in delivering scalable, market-based WASH solutions. 

The partnership is grounded in the shared recognition that access to safe water and adequate sanitation is not only a cornerstone of public health but also a fundamental driver of equity, resilience, and sustainable development. With an investment of Ksh.515 million (Japanese Yen 626 million), the project will target three priority counties Garissa, Busia, Wajir, in addition to Nairobi’s informal settlements.

It will focus on the elimination of open defecation, strengthening of community resilience, and improve emergency preparedness.

Upgrades to water and sanitation facilities in schools and health centres, alongside market-based sanitation initiatives and innovative rural water supply pilots, are central components of the project.

This initiative is closely aligned with Japan’s strategic commitments under the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) framework, particularly the priorities outlined at TICAD 9 in Yokohama, August 2025.

Under the theme “Co-create Innovative Solutions with Africa,” Japan has reaffirmed its dedication to bolstering primary health care systems, preventing infectious disease outbreaks, and supporting Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across the continent.

The new partnership with UNICEF Kenya is a tangible manifestation of these priorities, demonstrating Japan’s resolve to foster collaborative, technology-driven solutions with countries across Africa.

UNICEF has a longstanding reputation for delivering effective, evidence-based interventions in WASH and health sectors worldwide.

With a well-established presence in Kenya and a track record of working closely with national and county governments, UNICEF brings unparalleled technical expertise, community engagement capacity, and a deep commitment to equity focused on children and communities in greatest need.

Its ability to convene diverse stakeholders—including government partners, civil society organisations, and private sector partners—ensures that solutions are locally relevant, sustainable, and scalable.

“Japan greatly values its longstanding partnership with UNICEF and is honoured to launch this new collaboration aimed at advancing universal health coverage in Kenya. Together, we will expand access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and health services to protect the country's most vulnerable children and families,” said Hiroshi Matsuura, Ambassador of Japan to Kenya.

“This partnership with the Government of Japan exemplifies the power of global cooperation in tackling complex health and development challenges,” said Dr. Shaheen Nilofer, UNICEF Kenya Representative.

“By combining UNICEF’s expertise and local knowledge with Japan’s commitment to improving sanitation, hygiene, and water supply in Kenya and the continent, we aim to create lasting impact for children, their families, and entire communities.”

In addition to infrastructure upgrades, the initiative will invest in capacity building for local authorities, frontline health workers, and community groups—including women and youth—on market-based sanitation strategies, including the installation, operation, and maintenance of innovative WASH systems.

The project will also strengthen community-based early warning systems for flood risks and climate-sensitive disease outbreaks to improve disease surveillance and emergency response in hard-to-reach areas.

This partnership is a testament to the enduring friendship between Japan and Kenya, and to UNICEF’s pivotal role as a trusted champion for children and communities worldwide. By uniting shared values, technical expertise, and a commitment to innovation and action, the initiative aims to build a healthier, more resilient future for all Kenyans.