In Kenya, Mavoko County factory workers set to benefit from new water, sanitation and hygiene initiative

Over 8,000 factory workers in the Athi River, Mavoko County will benefit from a water, sanitation and hygiene project by Water and Sanitation for the Urban Poor (WSUP), IDH and SOKO Community Trust - Kujuwa Initiative.

With support from the VF Corporation - a global leader in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear, and accessories – the transformative project aims to improve the lives of factory workers and their neighbouring communities.

This initiative, which is part of VF Corporation’s Worker & Community Development (WCD) program, will directly benefit 8,000 workers from two VF Corporation suppliers’ factories, all located in Athi River Industrial Park. Additionally, the project will extend its impact to 12,500 residents in nearby low-income areas, providing critical support beyond factory walls to factory workers and their families.

Jenny Löfbom, Country Director, IDH Kenya, said "This partnership demonstrates the power of convening partners to achieve meaningful change. By uniting with VF Corporation, WSUP, and SOKO Community Trust - Kujuwa Initiative, we are aligning expertise and resources to enhance health, gender equity, and community well-being in and around factories in Athi River. Together, we are creating a sustainable model that addresses critical water, sanitation, and hygiene needs, to empower and uplift factory workers and their communities. At IDH, we are proud to be part of this initiative, which underscores our commitment to fostering equitable and sustainable development in Kenya’s garment industry."

The project aims to enhance access to water, sanitation, and menstrual hygiene management (MHM) for workers, their families, schoolchildren, and the broader community in Mavoko. To achieve this, WSUP will strengthen Mavoko Water and Sanitation Company’s service delivery by conducting a comprehensive sanitation assessment and establishing a dedicated sanitation unit. A county-led coordination team will oversee the project and advocate for improved sanitation policies at both county and national levels.

In parallel, supported by IDH, the SOKO Community Trust - Kujuwa Initiative will focus on enhancing MHM within factories. This includes providing comprehensive training, establishing MHM committees, and ensuring access to reusable menstrual products. SOKO Community Trust -  Kujuwa Initiative will also address and eliminate harmful myths and stigma surrounding menstruation through education and open dialogue. The program will challenge misconceptions and increase awareness around sexual and reproductive health, women’s rights, and menstrual hygiene.

Lastly, to promote healthier hygiene practices, WSUP will engage the factory workers and local communities through training sessions, school programs, and targeted information campaigns.

“At WSUP, we understand that water is more than just a resource; it’s a complex system that involves people, institutions, and policies. That’s why we’re excited to collaborate with our partners to support MAVWASCO to improve the lives of factory workers and their families in Mavoko County. By addressing critical water, sanitation, and hygiene needs, we aim to create sustainable solutions that empower communities and promote equity and dignity for all,” said Mr.  Antony Ambugo, WSUP Kenya Country Manager.

Throughout its one (1) year implementation, the project will offer leadership and management training to empower women and break down barriers to career advancement. This initiative, in collaboration with IDH, VF Corporation, WSUP, and SOKO Community Trust - Kujuwa Initiative, represents a comprehensive approach to improving community well-being, enhancing workplace conditions, and promoting gender equality within Kenya’s garment industry.