Weeked Read
Kenya is one of the world’s regions that endures extreme heat, particularly in its arid and semi-arid areas, where rainfall is scarce. Many people struggle to secure safe drinking, cooking, and sanitation water, resorting to contaminated sources that can lead to waterborne diseases. So, in 2017, Beth Koigi, a visionary Kenyan entrepreneur, founded Majik Water to curb this problem. The company specialises in atmospheric water generation, a technology that produces water from the air using solar power and desiccants. This method is particularly effective in arid regions, providing a decentralized and sustainable water source.
Approximately 15 million Kenyans lack access to safe water, and 37 million lack access to improved sanitation facilities. Climate change further worsens the crisis, with prolonged droughts exposing communities to harsh conditions while searching for clean water.
Kogi moves to found Majik Water
Koigi’s journey began during her university years at Chuka University in eastern Kenya, where she encountered the challenges of accessing clean water. Determined to make a difference, she began developing simple yet effective water filtration systems using activated charcoal. However, she soon realised that filtration alone wasn’t enough; there wasn’t enough clean water available in the first place. This experience ignited her passion for finding sustainable solutions to water scarcity through Majik Water.
Since its inception, Majik Water has significantly alleviated water scarcity. The company has installed over 30 atmospheric water generators, producing approximately 200,000 litres per month and serving more than 1,900 people. These deployments include 20 high-volume and 10 small-scale installations across various regions.
Majik Water aims to make clean water affordable for underserved communities. The company offers water at approximately £0.08 per litre, striving to balance sustainability with accessibility.
Majik Water offers a groundbreaking alternative, unlike traditional boreholes and dams that depend on groundwater or rainfall. Powered entirely by solar energy, its system extracts moisture directly from the air, providing a reliable source of clean water even in the driest regions. This innovation makes Majik Water a game-changer for drought-prone communities, ensuring access to safe water without depleting natural reserves.
Majik Water has garnered recognition and support through various awards and grants. The company won the €15,000 first prize at the EDF Pulse Africa Awards 2017.
Beth Koigi has provided a sustainable and decentralised water source through her enterprise. The company has improved access to clean drinking water in some of the country’s most arid regions, enhancing public health and reducing the environmental impact of traditional water-sourcing methods.
