July 2019
Sanitation Policies, Practices and Preferences in Kisumu, Kenya
SUMMARY
- The majority of low-income residents use basic unlined pit latrines but prefer water-based sanitation options, such as pour- or cistern flush toilets to lined pits, septic tanks, or sewer.
- Kisumu’s high water table complicates toilet construction and accelerates pit fill-up rates.
- Kisumu has the capacity to safely treat fecal sludge, with two treatment sites in operation.
- Multiple ongoing sanitation programs focus on safe emptying and disposal in low-income areas.
