CEO & Founder
Mathare, Nairobi: What We Learned from a Community Shaping Its Own Future
A Visit to Mathare, Nairobi
During our trip to Kenya, we did not only want to accompany the production of our first earthfilter ceramic water filters. It was equally important for us to learn about the realities of life of the people our partner organizations work with and to gain a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities on the ground.
That is why part of our journey took us to Mathare in Nairobi. Mathare is one of the largest informal settlements in East Africa and at the same time a place where impressive projects, strong communities, and extraordinary commitment emerge every day.
First Impressions of Mathare
Shortly after arriving, it became clear that Mathare is much more than the images many people have in mind when they think of a slum.
The streets were full of life. Children were playing together, people were going about their work, small shops were open, and in many places it was evident how closely the community works together.
We were accompanied by local volunteers and members of various organizations who work every day to improve living conditions. Thanks to their support, we felt welcomed and safe throughout our visit.
Community Instead of Resignation
The main purpose of our visit was to see an ongoing infrastructure project.
On site, we were able to visit a nearly completed wastewater drainage system that had been built with the active involvement of local residents.
Many people told us that heavy rainfall had regularly caused flooding in the past. Polluted water would flow through the settlement, causing not only property damage but also serious health risks.
What impressed us most was the attitude of those involved.
Instead of waiting solely for political decisions or government support, the community decided to take action themselves. Together, local residents planned, organized, and built a new drainage system.
This project is expected to help reduce flooding in the future and sustainably improve the quality of life for many families.
The People Behind the Change
During our visit, we met several local organizations and initiatives that are working every day to strengthen their neighborhoods.
SDI Kenya / Muungano wa Wanavijiji
SDI Kenya and Muungano wa Wanavijiji support communities in developing their own solutions to housing, infrastructure, and urban development challenges.
Website: https://sdinet.org/
Website: https://muungano.net/
Waste for Education
The organization combines circular economy principles, waste management, and educational support, creating new opportunities for children and families.
Facebook: Waste for Education
X: https://x.com/Waste4Education
Kambimoto Youths and Kids
Photo Placeholder
The initiative is particularly dedicated to supporting children and young people while strengthening local communities through educational and social projects.
Kambimoto Youths and Kids - Facebook Page
Huruma Waste Pickers
The organization promotes sustainable waste management while creating income opportunities for local residents.
A Visit to the GIZ Container Hub
After visiting the infrastructure project, we stopped at a container site supported by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).
The container serves as a coordination and support center for various organizations.
Projects are organized here, meetings are held, and residents can receive support and information. We were impressed by how many different initiatives come together in one place and coordinate their work.
What We Took Away from Mathare
When many people in Europe think about slums, they often associate them only with poverty, insecurity, and a lack of opportunities.
Our visit showed us that this perspective is far too limited.
Of course, the challenges are real. At the same time, we met people who are working on solutions with remarkable energy, creativity, and determination.
Mathare did not impress us because of its problems.
Mathare impressed us because of its people.
Why These Experiences Matter to earthfilter
As a company, we work every day on issues related to water, quality of life, and sustainable solutions.
Our journey reminded us once again that sustainable development is not created by products alone. It happens wherever people take responsibility, share knowledge, and work together toward a better future.
We are grateful for the openness with which we were welcomed and for the opportunity to share these experiences with our community.
Mathare will remain in our memories for a long time.