Under its ambitious “Improving Lives” initiative, Kenya-based water and energy solutions provider, Davis & Shirtliff, has made a significant impact on the lives of over 1.5 million people across the country. The initiative, which started in 2018, aims to provide clean water and renewable energy to those in need, particularly in rural communities where access to these essential resources is limited.
One of the key areas of focus for the initiative has been the provision of sustainable energy solutions. Davis & Shirtliff has implemented 124 water and solar projects worth over Sh93 million across over 31 counties, providing clean energy to schools and communities. The solar-powered systems have helped reduce energy costs and increase efficiency, making it easier for people to access clean water and energy.
According to George Mbugua, CEO of Davis & Shirtliff, climate change is causing widespread disruption, making access to water and energy even more critical. To tackle this challenge, the company has prioritized partnerships and innovative approaches, leveraging both for-profit and non-profit expertise to drive real impact.
The “Improving Lives” initiative has been successful in bridging the gap of safe water access, particularly in schools. One of the key milestones was the conversion of 35 handpumps into solar-powered systems, ensuring a reliable and low-maintenance water supply for schools and communities. This transition boosts efficiency, reduces time spent at wells, and guarantees continuous water access.
The initiative has also partnered with various organizations to deliver sustainable solutions. For example, in collaboration with the Britam Foundation, D&S Improving Lives rehabilitated boreholes and installed solar-powered pumps in 21 primary schools across 13 counties. Together with the Lavington Eco Rotary Club and Acacia Moyo, D&S installed a solar-powered borehole at Empakasi Primary School, benefiting pupils and the surrounding community.
The impact of the initiative cannot be overstated. With one in three schools in Kenya lacking safe water access, this initiative is a beacon of hope for communities in need. By providing sustainable solutions, Davis & Shirtliff is enhancing learning environments while cutting operational costs. The initiative is also a testament to the power of partnerships and innovative approaches in driving real impact.
Key Projects and Partnerships
- Installed a solar-powered 4kw Dayliff borehole pump in Gambela, Isiolo, delivering 21,000 litres of water per hour.
- Commissioned a water filtration treatment plant in Homa Bay County, in partnership with ChildFund and DuPont.
- Rehabilitated boreholes and installed solar-powered pumps in 21 primary schools across 13 counties, in collaboration with the Britam Foundation.
- Installed a solar-powered borehole at Empakasi Primary School, benefiting pupils and the surrounding community, in partnership with the Lavington Eco Rotary Club and Acacia Moyo.
Impact and Milestones
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2018 | Launched the “Improving Lives” initiative, aiming to provide clean water and renewable energy to over 1.5 million people. |
| 2024 | Converted 35 handpumps into solar-powered systems, ensuring a reliable and low-maintenance water supply for schools and communities. |
| 2025 | Targeting to replace many more installations, continuing the initiative into the next year. |
“Through sustainable innovations and strategic alliances, D&S continues to make clean water and renewable energy accessible to those who need it most,” said George Mbugua, CEO of Davis & Shirtliff. The initiative is a testament to the company’s commitment to providing sustainable solutions that drive real impact.
In 2024, the company implemented 124 water and solar projects worth over Sh93 million across over 31 counties. The projects address the pressing challenges of water and energy insecurity caused by climate change, providing a reliable and sustainable source of clean water and energy.
By providing sustainable solutions, Davis & Shirtliff is enhancing learning environments while cutting operational costs. The initiative is also a beacon of hope for communities in need, demonstrating the power of partnerships and innovative approaches in driving real impact.
Since 2018, the “Improving Lives” initiative has implemented over 760 projects, benefiting more than 1.5 million people. The initiative is a shining example of the impact that can be achieved through sustainable energy and water solutions.
Quote from George Mbugua
“Climate change is causing widespread disruption, making access to water and energy even more critical. Tackling this challenge requires strong partnerships and innovative approaches, leveraging both for-profit and non-profit expertise to drive real impact,” said George Mbugua, CEO of Davis & Shirtliff.
Statistics and Facts
- Over 1.5 million people have benefited from the “Improving Lives” initiative since 2018.
- 124 water and solar projects worth over Sh93 million have been implemented across over 31 counties.
- 35 handpumps have been converted into solar-powered systems, ensuring a reliable and low-maintenance water supply for schools and communities.
- 21 primary schools have been equipped with solar-powered pumps, providing clean water and energy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the “Improving Lives” initiative by Davis & Shirtliff has made a significant impact on the lives of over 1.5 million people in Kenya. The initiative has provided sustainable energy and water solutions to communities in need, enhancing learning environments while cutting operational costs.
