By Eddah Waithaka
World Vision Kenya today launched a powerful new national strategy and water access plan, charting an ambitious course to dramatically improve child well-being and water security across the country over the next five years.
The organization’s 2026-2030 National Strategy sets a bold target: improving outcomes for 13.3 million children, families, and community members across 33 counties.
A dedicated WASH Business Plan complements this goal by outlining a clear pathway to provide over 1.2 million people in 18 counties with sustainable access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene.
Senior government officials immediately hailed the launch, emphasizing the critical role of partnership.
Dr. Festus Ngeno, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Environment and Climate Change, underscored the alignment between World Vision’s plans and national priorities.
“World Vision Kenya’s strategic focus areas are highly complementary to Kenya’s ongoing national and county initiatives,” Dr. Ngeno stated.
He specifically pointed to shared goals in climate resilience, water security, and child protection. “The choices we make to protect our natural resources determine the water our communities have, the health systems we rely on, and ultimately, the future opportunities available for our children.”
The strategy responds directly to Kenya’s pressing challenges. It places a particular emphasis on vulnerable groups, including an estimated 8.04 million children living in extreme poverty and over 343,000 children with disabilities.
The plan integrates seven key areas: child protection, education, WASH, environment and climate change, food security, health and nutrition, and disaster management.
Lillian Dodzo, World Vision’s Regional Vice President and Regional Director for the East Africa Region, described the launch as a covenant with Kenya’s future. “This strategy embodies our shared commitment to achieving sustainable, inclusive transformation that is anchored in dignity,” she said.
She illustrated the life-changing impact of WASH investments by sharing the story of Lily, a mother from Bomet County, whose family’s health and stability transformed after gaining access to simple water purification tools.
The launch signals a major scaling up of effort. The previous strategy (2021-2025) reached 9.4 million children. The new plan represents a significant expansion in reach and requires an estimated $392 million investment.
Also Read : https://africawatchnews.co.ke/community-initiative-arms-kenyan-coast-families-against-waterborne-disease/
Leaders stressed that achieving these goals demands innovative financing and deeper collaboration.
“Because of the shrinking donor landscape, World Vision Kenya will need to work very closely with the national government, county governments, bilaterals, multilateral agencies, and the private sector,” Dr. Ngeno urged, inviting the organization to leverage government frameworks and co-financing opportunities.
Dr. David Kitanga, Chairman of World Vision Kenya’s Board, echoed the call for unity. “As we embark on this ambitious next chapter, let us move forward together with purpose, integrity, and conviction that every Kenyan child deserves a life in all its fullness.”
The strategy’s launch marks a pivotal moment for child well-being and sustainable development in Kenya, uniting a major humanitarian partner with government leadership behind a common, data-driven vision for the nation’s future.
