About the WASH Initiative
Sidian Bank has launched a comprehensive Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) campaign in Meru County, Kenya, with a clear mission: improve access to clean water and strengthen hygiene awareness in schools and nearby communities. The campaign, rolled out on January 26, 2026, marks a significant step in the bank’s broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy to support health, education, and sustainable development within its footprint.
What the program entails
The WASH initiative in Meru focuses on several interlinked components designed to deliver tangible, long-term benefits. Key efforts include the installation and upgrade of clean water sources at targeted schools, construction or renovation of school latrines to meet basic hygiene standards, and the installation of handwashing stations equipped with soap and water storage solutions. In addition, the program emphasizes hygiene education, ensuring students, teachers, and community members understand proper handwashing techniques, safe water handling, and the importance of sanitation in disease prevention.
To maximize impact, Sidian Bank is coordinating with local education authorities, health officers, and community-based organizations to identify the most critical needs. The campaign also includes capacity-building workshops for school administrators and caretakers on maintaining water facilities, monitoring water quality, and sustaining hygiene programs beyond the bank’s direct involvement.
Why Meru County and why now
Meru County presents a compelling case for WASH-focused investment. Access to reliable clean water and adequate sanitation is essential for reducing preventable illnesses and supporting student attendance and learning outcomes. By prioritizing schools, Sidian Bank aims to create a ripple effect: healthier students are more likely to attend classes, perform better academically, and contribute to the long-term development of their communities.
Expected impact and community benefits
At the heart of the campaign is the belief that small, sustainable actions can yield big health dividends. Expected outcomes include increased school attendance, particularly among girls who are disproportionately affected by hygiene-related barriers, and improved overall sanitation practices within households and communities. The initiative also seeks to raise awareness about water conservation and safe storage, reducing water-related waste and contamination. Local teachers and health volunteers will play a central role in ongoing education, ensuring that hygiene practices become routine parts of daily life.
Collaboration, funding and accountability
Sidian Bank is working with a coalition of partners, including county education offices, health departments, and local NGOs, to ensure transparent implementation and monitoring. The funding model blends bank resources with donor support and in-kind contributions from suppliers and contractors. A dedicated monitoring framework will track key indicators such as the number of schools with updated water facilities, the frequency of hygiene demonstrations, and improvements in water quality testing. Community feedback mechanisms will also be established to refine approaches and address emerging needs.
Looking ahead
While the initial phase focuses on Meru County’s schools, the WASH campaign is designed to scale. If successful, the model could be adapted for neighboring counties, expanding access to clean water and sustainable hygiene practices across the region. Sidian Bank envisions a future where WASH initiatives become a core element of local development, strengthening resilience against waterborne diseases and supporting Kenya’s broader public health goals.
In their own words
Representatives from Sidian Bank emphasize that the campaign aligns with national health and education goals and reflects a long-standing commitment to responsible banking. By investing in basic but vital services like clean water and sanitation, the bank hopes to foster healthier school environments and more prosperous communities.
