About the Local Hero

Mtaa Safi is an award-winning, youth-led organization founded in 2018. For the past five years, their focus has been on waste management, mentorship programs, water sanitation and hygiene, and food security in the Kibera slum in Nairobi.

Partnership

In recent years, Gender2Connect has supported Mtaa Safi in the implementation of a new WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) initiative in Kibera slum. Mtaa Safi has installed seven toilets and eight showers right in the heart of the community. Over 5,000 local residents use these facilities daily for a small fee (around 3 cents). Previously, such amenities were not available, and people had to walk long distances to shared toilets and showers.
The facilities are open 24 hours a day, which is exceptional in Kibera, as similar services typically close at night. There is 24-hour security, and a clear division between the men's and women's sections. The spaces are well cleaned and maintained, and users are provided with toilet paper and, notably, free sanitary pads. In addition, local residents can access clean drinking water for free at the same location. This not only helps improve hygiene but also contributes to greater safety and convenience for women and young people.

Mission

Mtaa Safi's mission is to empower youth and young mothers in the community to find sustainable local solutions. We work towards creating a cleaner, healthier, and safer environment for all.