East Africa is grappling with a multifaceted water crisis that affects millions of lives daily. Over 15 million people in Kenya alone, including 4.2 million children, lack access to clean and safe drinking water. This scarcity is driven by outdated infrastructure, poor water quality, and inefficient management practices, with a staggering 30% of water supplied in cities like Nairobi lost through leaks and unauthorized usage—a phenomenon known as Non-Revenue Water (NRW). The financial cost of these losses runs into billions annually, straining already limited resources. The lack of clean water exacerbates the spread of waterborne diseases such as typhoid, cholera, and dysentery, which disproportionately affect children and vulnerable populations. Poor data availability on water systems further compounds the issue, making it difficult for governments, utilities, and organizations to respond effectively to leaks, contamination, or shortages. Adding to these challenges, climate change has intensified droughts and water stress in the region, threatening agriculture, public health, and livelihoods. The growing demand for water, combined with limited exploration of sustainable groundwater sources, leaves communities increasingly vulnerable to water scarcity. This crisis demands urgent, innovative, and scalable solutions to secure water resources and improve access for millions.

Aquatech addresses East Africa’s water crisis through an integrated, technology-driven approach that combines real-time monitoring, community empowerment, and advanced resource mapping. Our IoT-based sensor technology is deployed on water infrastructure to monitor quality and detect leaks, enabling utilities to act quickly and prevent the wastage of up to 30% of water lost through inefficiencies. These sensors provide critical, real-time data that helps optimize water distribution while ensuring clean and safe delivery to underserved communities. By enhancing transparency and operational efficiency, this system not only reduces losses but also builds resilience against future water challenges. Our solution goes beyond technology by fostering collaboration and engagement through citizen science. Using our intuitive mobile app, communities can report water issues, such as pipeline bursts or contamination, directly to local authorities, creating a bridge between users and utilities. We combine this community-driven data with satellite-based Earth observation tools, including NASA GRACE, and on-ground hydrological surveys to locate sustainable groundwater resources. By blending cutting-edge technology with actionable insights, Aquatech empowers communities to take ownership of their water systems while providing decision-makers with the tools to plan for a water-secure future. This holistic approach ensures lasting impact, bridging the gap between immediate needs and long-term sustainability.