Deadline: 1-Jul-25
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is inviting applications from eligible organizations for a new initiative titled “Construction of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Facilities in Nairobi.” The project aims to enhance access to safe and sustainable water supply, improve sanitation, and promote hygiene practices in schools located within the informal settlements of Nairobi, Kenya.
The program will directly benefit approximately 2,200 pupils across two schools. The focus is on providing safe drinking water, functional sanitation infrastructure, and improved hygiene practices that contribute to a healthier school environment.
The scope of work includes the construction of rooftop rainwater harvesting systems or connection to the County Government’s water supply system. This will involve installing gutters, filters, screens, and downspouts with a first-flush system. Where appropriate, alternative technologies such as atmospheric water generators may be used, especially for schools lacking proper roofing structures.
Additionally, the project requires the procurement and installation of 5,000-litre water storage tanks. These tanks must be sufficient to meet the daily water needs of each pupil, providing at least 5 litres per day. The tanks will be installed on school grounds and connected to the available water supply systems.
In terms of sanitation, the project includes the design and construction of two separate gender-friendly single-sex toilet facilities in each selected school. UN-Habitat will work closely with school management to ensure the toilets meet appropriate standards. The scope also includes improved solid waste management systems to enhance school cleanliness.
To reinforce hygiene practices, the project will support the installation of innovative handwashing facilities and the creation of health clubs. These clubs will educate learners about water conservation, personal hygiene, and disease prevention. Capacity building sessions will also be held for pupils, teachers, and school administrators to promote sustainable hygiene behaviors.
Training will be provided to school management teams on maintaining the rainwater harvesting systems and ensuring proper functioning of the WASH infrastructure in the long term.
UN-Habitat will provide financial support amounting to approximately USD 55,000. The project will be implemented through an Agreement of Cooperation and is scheduled to begin on 1 August 2025, with a duration of five months.
Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are invited from NGOs with a strong operational presence and demonstrable experience in implementing WASH programs in urban low-income areas of Nairobi. Interested organizations must meet specific requirements.
The EOI submission should include the institution’s background and relevant experience in school-based WASH projects. Applicants should outline their proposed methodology, including key activities, timelines, innovations, and budget estimates. Details of any financial or in-kind contributions the organization can offer should also be included.
Additional documentation must cover governance structures, qualifications of key staff, available infrastructure, and organizational capacity. Applicants are also required to submit certified copies of audited financial statements for the past two years, along with their most recent annual report.
This initiative provides a valuable opportunity for capable organizations to contribute to sustainable development and health equity for school children in underserved urban communities.
For more information, visit UN-HABITAT.
