Kenya Safe Water Project
Bringing Safe Drinking Water to Families in Kenya
Access to clean drinking water is something many of us take for granted. Yet millions of families around the world still rely on unsafe water sources that can cause disease, lost productivity, and environmental damage.
The Kenya Clean Water Project, led by the Castle Hill Rotary Club, is working to change this reality for communities in the Tharaka Province of Kenya by providing innovative solar-powered water purification units that enable families to safely drink water without boiling it over firewood or charcoal.
With your support, we can provide safe water to families who need it most.
The Global Water Crisis
Access to safe drinking water remains one of the world’s biggest development challenges.
2.2 billion people worldwide lack safely managed drinking water services (WHO / UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme).
Over 485,000 people die each year from diarrhoeal diseases caused by unsafe water and poor sanitation (World Health Organisation).
Women and children spend an estimated 200 million hours every day collecting water globally (UNICEF).
Lack of safe water contributes to school absences, illness, and lost economic opportunities in developing regions.
By supporting clean water initiatives, communities gain improved health, better education outcomes, and stronger economic development.
Our Solution: Solar Safe Water Technology
The project uses the Solvatten Safe Water Unit, a solar-powered water purification device designed for use in remote communities without reliable infrastructure.
Families fill the unit with water and place it in direct sunlight. The device uses solar heat and ultraviolet radiation to purify water, making it safe to drink in just a few hours.
How It Works
Water is poured into the 10-litre unit through a built-in filter.
The unit is opened and placed in direct sunlight.
Solar heat and UV radiation eliminate harmful pathogens.
Within 2–6 hours, the water becomes safe to drink.
Each unit can be refilled thousands of times and typically lasts 7–10 years, providing a sustainable solution for families.
Real Impact for Families
One Solvatten unit can transform a family's daily life.
Over a 7-year period, each unit can provide:
42,000 litres of safe hot water
300 fewer sick days due to waterborne illness
7,000 hours saved previously spent collecting firewood or boiling water
50 trees saved from deforestation
7 tonnes of CO₂ emissions avoided
These outcomes lead to healthier families, improved school attendance for children, and greater economic opportunities.