An AMFI Kenya and Vision Fund Kenya beneficiary field visit highlights how financing for water infrastructure can support livelihoods, agricultural productivity and community-level economic opportunities.
Access to reliable water is essential not only for household wellbeing but also for economic productivity, particularly in rural communities where agriculture remains an important source of livelihoods.
For Bishop Dr Julius Mathi and Reverend Dr Beth Mathi, access to water has been central to their family’s journey towards developing a sustainable agricultural enterprise.
Before establishing their own water infrastructure, the family relied on a spring approximately three kilometers away for their domestic water needs. The situation presented a significant challenge, particularly during dry periods.
In 2022, the couple invested approximately KSh 4 million in drilling a borehole, laying the foundation for a more reliable water supply.
However, making the water accessible and useful for their growing needs required additional investment.
Through financing provided by Vision Fund Kenya, the family was able to expand its water infrastructure, acquiring a water pump, constructing a water tower and installing two water storage tanks, each with a capacity of 10,000 liters.
The resulting infrastructure has supported the family’s household water needs and enabled them to make water available to other community members, who purchase it particularly during dry seasons.
Turning water access into agricultural opportunity
Beyond addressing household water needs, the investment has supported the family’s agricultural ambitions.
The couple operates a commercial farm spanning approximately 10 acres, where they cultivate a variety of crops, including mangoes, avocados, tomatoes, cabbages, carrots, pawpaw, apples and sweet potatoes.
Their agricultural activities are designed to generate income and sustain the household, while supporting the repayment of their WASH financing.
The farm currently supports three permanent employees and provides additional casual employment opportunities to other residents within the village.
By combining water infrastructure with commercial farming, the family has developed an enterprise that connects access to an essential resource with agricultural production, income generation and local employment.
The wider impact of WASH financing
The experience of the Mathi family illustrates the potential of financing for water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) investments to generate benefits beyond the immediate provision of water.
Appropriate financing can enable households to invest in infrastructure that supports productive activities, strengthens economic resilience and creates opportunities within local communities.
It also demonstrates the importance of financial solutions that respond to the actual needs and economic circumstances of households, particularly those engaged in agriculture and other income-generating activities.
