Ecstatic Northern Kenya residents with foodstuffs supplied to them via NRT initiatives. Photo/NRT
In northern Kenya’s arid and semi-arid landscapes, water remains the backbone of life, livelihoods, and opportunity. In 2025, the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) intensified its focus on water and education under its Livelihoods Chapter, delivering high-impact interventions that continue to reshape community resilience across conservancies.
The organisation supported 24 completed water projects and 14 ongoing initiatives, directly benefiting 5,331 households.
An estimated 2,155 students and school staff gained improved access to water, while over 1,400 patients in health facilities also benefited from reliable supply systems. In total, KSh 203,143,566 was invested in water projects, alongside KSh102,246,868 in broader infrastructure development.
Expanding access to schools and health facilities
Across many communities, access to water has historically been limited, forcing families—especially women and children—to walk long distances in harsh conditions. Through boreholes, water pans, piping systems, and storage facilities, NRT has brought water closer to homes, schools, and health centres, reducing travel time and improving daily living conditions.
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The expansion of water infrastructure into schools has been particularly impactful, improving sanitation, hygiene, and attendance levels. Girls, who are often most affected by inadequate facilities, are now able to remain in school more consistently, strengthening overall learning outcomes.
Building systems for long-term sustainability
Beyond infrastructure, NRT has prioritised system-building and governance to ensure long-term sustainability. Community-led water resource management structures are being strengthened to enhance ownership, maintenance, and accountability at local level.
CEO Vishal Shah noted that water and education remain central to transforming northern Kenya’s future. “When we invest in water, we unlock livelihoods. When we invest in education, we unlock futures,” he said, emphasizing that combined investments can fundamentally change community trajectories.
Despite financial and operational challenges in 2025, NRT maintained focus on high-impact programmes, reinforcing its commitment to resilience, stability, and sustainable development.
Looking ahead, the organisation aims to expand water coverage further while integrating water access with education, health, and climate resilience initiatives.
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