saniwise technologies

Sani-wise toilet is a sustainable and cost-effective system that integrates fecal treatment and resource recovery using Black Soldier Flies and improved pit latrines, suitable for areas with high water tables.

Fecal sludge management is a critical challenge for sustainable development as it impacts various aspects of economies, environments, and societies. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have shifted their focus from simply addressing access to sanitation facilities to considering safe waste management along the entire sanitation service chain. In low-income areas of Kisumu, Kenya, which have a population of 461,000, access to improved sanitation is limited. Approximately 60% of the population uses unimproved sanitation, with 55% using basic unlined pit latrines and 5% practicing open defecation. Only 20% of residents in Kisumu city are connected to sewer systems, with an additional 5% connected to septic tanks. Urban poor in these areas have expressed concerns about shared toilets that are often unhygienic and pose health risks, especially for children and vulnerable individuals. They also lack privacy and safety at night.

Rapid urbanization in the developing world has increased the demand for housing, infrastructure, and services, including sanitation. In the past, efforts to improve sanitation have often focused on ambitious master plans that require large investments in trunk sewerage and stormwater drainage systems. These plans have not adequately considered financial and institutional constraints and have neglected the needs and preferences of sanitation users. The Sani-wise toilet project aims to address these issues by providing a sustainable and feasible solution for the urban poor in Kisumu

To address these sanitation challenges, we have come up with the solution of piloting of the Sani-wise toilet in low-income areas of Kisumu. The Sani-wise toilet is an innovative two-in-one dry toilet technology that integrates fecal treatment and resource recovery in-situ using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) and improved pit latrines lined to withstand high water tables. It is an environmentally friendly, sustainable, and economically feasible system that is suitable for the financial status of the target population. The project aims to directly target 1,000 households in low-income areas of Kisumu County, with at least 40% being youths and 50% being women. Three registered manual emptying groups will also be directly targeted. Indirect target groups will include public utility companies, community leaders, local administration, and other sanitation stakeholders in the working areas.

The goal of this project is to provide safe, affordable, and sustainable fecal sludge management solutions for the urban poor. The objectives are to promote a circular economy, ensure access to safe sanitation, increase efficiency in fecal sludge management, and create new enterprises within the sanitation service chain.

The expected outcomes of the project are multifaceted and involve a range of different stakeholders. One key goal of the project is to increase youth and women's involvement in sanitation. This could involve training and education programs to increase their knowledge and understanding of proper sanitation practices, as well as providing opportunities for them to actively participate in the design, implementation, and maintenance of sanitation infrastructure. By increasing the participation of youth and women, the project hopes to ensure that their needs and perspectives are taken into account in the development of sanitation solutions.

Another expected outcome of the project is improved sanitation in the target areas. This could involve the construction of new latrines, the rehabilitation of existing infrastructure, or the promotion of improved sanitation practices such as handwashing. The goal is to ensure that residents of the target areas have access to clean and safe sanitation facilities, which can help to prevent the spread of disease and improve overall public health.

The project also aims to increase the availability, access, and income from sanitation products and services. This could involve providing financial assistance or subsidies to help households afford sanitation products, or working with local businesses to increase the production and distribution of these products. By making sanitation products more widely available and affordable, the project hopes to increase the adoption of improved sanitation practices and ultimately improve public health outcomes.

Finally, the project aims to shift the perception of fecal sludge management from being a waste of resources to being a valuable resource. This could involve promoting the use of fecal sludge as a source of fertilizer or biogas, or finding other ways to reuse and recycle the waste. By highlighting the potential value of fecal sludge, the project hopes to reduce the environmental impact of sanitation practices and encourage more sustainable approaches to waste management

Our team consists of me a teacher, Chelsea who is an environmentalist, and three other team members who are residents of a low-income area experiencing poor sanitation. We are all motivated to make a change and improve the living conditions in our community. This would not only help to address the sanitation issues, but it would also provide an opportunity for environmental education and potentially even generate income for the community through the sale of compost. Myself as a teacher I could lead educational workshops on the importance of circular sanitation solution and how to properly manage a composting system. The environmentalist could provide expertise on the environmental benefits of composting and assist with setting up the program. The residents could play a crucial role in the success of the program by actively participating in the composting process and taking ownership of the initiative. Together, we can work towards a cleaner and more sustainable community.

we have conducted a needs assessment involving gathering information about the current situation and needs of the population we want to serve. This was done through surveys, focus groups, and interviews with community members, local leaders, and other stakeholders. we've also engaged with the community, It is important to involve community members in the design and implementation of the project. This has done through meetings and conversations with the community members .We have also done extensive research and analysis of data. We've taken a close look for data and research on the needs and challenges facing the population we want to serve. This include data on the availability and accessibility of toilet facilities, as well as information on the prevalence of diseases related to inadequate sanitation. Lastly is consultation with experts Seeking the advice and guidance of experts in the field of sanitation, public health, and community development. They have provided valuable insights on the needs and challenges of the population we want to serve.

Fecal sludge management is a critical issue with significant implications for sustainable development. The new focus of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on safe waste management along the entire sanitation service chain highlights the importance of addressing this issue. In Kisumu, a city in Kenya with a population of 461,000, access to improved sanitation is limited, with approximately 60% of the population using unimproved sanitation. Basic unlined pit latrines, which are vulnerable to contamination due to the high water table, are used by 55% of the population in low-income areas, and 5% of the population practices open defecation. Only 20% of the population is connected to a sewer system, while 5% is connected to septic tanks. We are seeking to pilot the Sani-wise toilet in low-income areas of Kisumu to address these challenges.

The Sani-wise toilet is a two-in-one dry toilet technology that integrates fecal treatment and resource recovery in-situ using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) and an improved pit latrine that is lined to withstand the high water table. It is an environmentally friendly, sustainable, and economically feasible system for the urban poor. The project aims to directly target 1,000 households in low-income areas of Kisumu County, as well as three registered manual emptying groups, with a focus on involving youth and women. Through outreach activities, the project also aims to reach other indirect target groups, including public utility companies, community leaders, local administration, and other sanitation stakeholders.

The goal of the project is to provide safe, affordable, and sustainable fecal sludge management solutions for the urban poor. Its objectives include promoting a circular economy, increasing access to safe sanitation, improving efficiency in fecal sludge management, and creating new enterprises within the sanitation service chain. The expected outcomes of the project include increased youth and women's involvement in sanitation, increased availability and income from sanitation products and services, improved sanitation in the target geographical areas, and a paradigm shift in the perception of fecal sludge management as a waste of resources.

1. Increase access to sanitation services: Our goal is to increase the number of people in low-income areas who have access to affordable and sustainable sanitation services. This could be achieved through expanding the company's service area, increasing the number of sanitation facilities available, or partnering with other organizations to help bring services to more people.

2. Improve sanitation infrastructure: Another goal is to improve the infrastructure of the company's sanitation facilities, such as by upgrading or replacing aging facilities or introducing more sustainable technologies. This could be achieved through investments in research and development or partnerships with organizations that have expertise in sanitation infrastructure.

3. Increase awareness of the importance of sanitation: A third goal is to increase awareness among the public and policymakers about the importance of sanitation in low-income areas and the role that the company's services can play in improving public health and the environment. This could be achieved through marketing and outreach efforts, such as through social media campaigns or partnerships with local organizations.

4. Reduce the environmental impact of the company's operations: A fourth goal  to reduce the environmental impact of the company's operations, Saniwise toilet is made up of 92% recycled plastic and usage of BSF for circular economy approach. We are still planning to invest in research and development, implementing more efficient practices, or partnering with organizations that have expertise in sustainable technologies.

Sani-wise toilet is a unique integrated back soldier fly pit latrine that uses a urine diverting dry toilet (UDDT) design that has been customized to meet the needs of end users. The toilet's superstructure is made up of 92% recycled plastic waste and tetra packs, which has been reinforced with metal angles on the corners to provide stability. The toilet also has a lockable plastic door with a metallic frame for privacy and a window on the back upper part for lighting. The floor is made of treaded tiles for easy cleaning and to prevent slips, and there is a squatting bowl in the center for the UDDT design. The toilet is well-ventilated with vents on both sides of the first floor and on the front of the second stairs to reduce odors.

The back phase of the toilet includes a seeding area for the black soldier flies (BSF) to break down fecal matter. The seeding unit includes a tray for the BSF and a rotating rake to turn the BSF for proper bio digestion. There is also a pit hole and a urine draining pipe beneath the seeding area that allows urine to be drained into the pit.

The Sani-wise toilet has several environmental and public health benefits. Its design helps to control pollution, as the pit is only 10 feet deep and lined, and the use of BSF for waste treatment promotes the reduction of disease occurrence caused by unsafely managed organic matter. BSF also repels other common fly species that can carry diseases. The toilet's use of recycled plastic and its design to minimize solid waste going into the pit also helps to reduce plastic pollution and improve public health. Additionally, the use of the biodegraded feces as a soil conditioner helps to improve soil health and fertility. The toilet's UDDT design also reduces water usage and helps to conserve resources. Overall, the Sani-wise toilet provides an affordable and sustainable sanitation solution for low-income areas.

We are currently in the planning and development phase of our sanitation solution and are excited to soon be able to serve the low-income communities of Nyalenda. In our first year of operation, we plan to construct 300 toilets for 300 homesteads in Nyalenda, which will provide affordable and sustainable sanitation solutions to the residents of these homesteads. Our goal is to make a positive impact on the lives of as many people as possible, and we look forward to helping improve the health and well-being of these communities through our services.

1. Limited financial resources: One barrier could be limited financial resources, which could make it difficult for the company to expand its service area, improve infrastructure, or invest in research and development.

2. Limited access to capital: Another barrier could be limited access to capital, which could make it difficult for the company to secure funding to support its growth and expansion.

3. Limited infrastructure: A third barrier could be limited infrastructure in low-income areas, which could make it difficult to provide sanitation services to people who are in need.

4. Political and regulatory barriers: A fourth barrier could be political and regulatory barriers, such as policies or regulations that make it difficult for the company to operate or expand its services.

5. Limited awareness of the importance of sanitation: A fifth barrier could be limited awareness among the public and policymakers about the importance of sanitation in low-income areas, which could make it difficult to generate support for the company's efforts.

•  Kisumu Water and Sewerage Company (KIWASCO). KIWASCO has provided saniwise with the land where we'll be operating on and offering research resources and providing us important linkage with the government.
• UNICEF: Unicef had offered us a seeding fund of $16,000 to start our operations and also provide business mentorship during this period.

SANIWISE TECHNOLOGIES BUSINESS MODEL

 Key Resources

• People: The project will require a team of resolute individuals to lead and manage the various activities involved in launching and running the project. This could include individuals with expertise in marketing, sales, operations, finance, and other key areas.
•  Finance: The project will require financial resources to cover the costs of product development and testing, marketing and outreach, delivery and installation, and other expenses. This could involve seeking funding from grants, loans, or investments.
• Access: The project will require access to various resources and infrastructure, including transportation and logistics, manufacturing and production facilities, and equipment and tools. It will also require access to key stakeholders, such as government agencies, NGOs, and other organizations working in the sanitation sector.
•  Partnerships and collaborations: Building partnerships and collaborations with key stakeholders can be a valuable resource for the project, as it can provide access to resources and expertise, as well as help to build credibility and support for the project.

KEY ACTIVITIES

Before launching the Sani-wise toilet project, These activities include:

1.      Market research: Conduct market research to understand the needs and preferences of potential customers in the target area. This could involve gathering data on current sanitation practices, identifying key pain points and challenges, and gathering insights into what potential customers are looking for in a sanitation solution.

2.      Product development and testing: Develop and test prototypes of the Sani-wise toilet to ensure that it meets the needs and preferences of potential customers. This could involve conducting focus groups and gathering feedback from potential users to refine the design of the toilet.

3.    Financial planning and fundraising: Develop a financial plan and identify potential sources of funding to support the launch and scaling of the project. This could involve seeking grants, loans, or investments from various sources.

4.      Partnerships and collaboration: Build partnerships and collaborations with key stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and other organizations working in the sanitation sector. These partnerships could help to provide support and resources for the project.

During the launch of the project, some key activities could include:

1.      Marketing and outreach: Develop and implement a marketing and outreach strategy to raise awareness about the Sani-wise toilet and its benefits. This could involve creating marketing materials, building relationships with potential customers, and engaging with the media to spread the word about the project.

2.      Sales and customer acquisition: Work to acquire customers through the initial down payment and monthly subscription packages. This could involve identifying target markets, reaching out to potential customers, and negotiating contracts.

3.      Delivery and installation: Coordinate the delivery and installation of the Sani-wise toilets to customers. This could involve working with local contractors or other partners to ensure that the units are properly installed and functioning.

4.      Basic services: Provide basic services to customers, including pit emptying and renovation, in exchange for the monthly subscription fee. This could involve building relationships with local manual emptying groups and other service providers.

5.      Manure and BSF larvae sales: Identify and establish relationships with buyers for the manure and BSF larvae produced by the Sani-wise toilets. This could involve working with farmers or other organizations interested in using these.

Partners + Key Stakeholders

• UNICEF
• LOCAL COMMUNITIES

   Cost Structure

•  Raw materials: The cost of the raw materials used to manufacture the Sani-wise toilet, such as plastic, metal, and other components.
•   Labor: The cost of labor involved in manufacturing, delivering, and installing the toilet, as well as providing basic services to customers.
• Marketing and outreach: The cost of marketing and outreach efforts, including the development of marketing materials, building relationships with potential customers, and engaging with the media.
• Delivery and installation: The cost of delivering and installing the Sani-wise toilet at customer locations, including transportation, logistics, and other expenses.
•  Basic services: The cost of providing basic services to customers, including pit emptying and renovation.
• Overhead: The cost of general and administrative expenses, such as rent, utilities, and insurance

Type of Intervention

The Sani-wise toilet is a product-based intervention that aims to provide a safe, affordable, and sustainable faecal sludge management solution for the urban poor. The intervention involves the design and manufacture of the Sani-wise toilet, which integrates faecal treatment and resource recovery in-situ using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) and an improved pit latrine that is lined to withstand the high-water table.

The intervention also involves the delivery and installation of the Sani-wise toilet at customer locations, as well as the provision of basic services to customers, including pit emptying and renovation. These services may be provided in exchange for a monthly subscription fee and may also involve the sale of manure and BSF larvae produced by the toilet.

Overall, the intervention is focused on providing a product and service that addresses the needs and challenges of the urban poor in terms of sanitation, while also promoting environmental sustainability and resource recovery.

Channels

• Marketing and outreach: Developing and implementing a marketing and outreach strategy to raise awareness about the Sani-wise toilet and its benefits. This involve creating marketing materials, such as brochures and flyers, and using social media and other digital platforms to reach potential customers.
•  Partnerships and collaborations: Building partnerships and collaborations with key stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and other organizations working in the sanitation sector. These partnerships can help to provide credibility and support for the project and may also help to reach potential customers through their networks and resources.
•  Sales and customer acquisition: Work to acquire customers through the initial down payment and monthly subscription packages. This could involve identifying target markets, reaching out to potential customers, and negotiating contracts.
• Community outreach: Engaging with the local community to build awareness and support for the Sani-wise toilet. This involves organizing workshops or other events to educate people about the product and its benefits and building relationships with community leaders and other influential figures.

Surplus

• Expanding the business: Invest in the expansion of the business, including the development and production of new products, increasing the number of customers served, or entering new markets.
• Research and development: Invest in research and development to continue improving and innovating the Sani-wise toilet and other products. This could involve funding the development of new technologies, materials, or designs.
• Marketing and outreach: Invest in marketing and outreach efforts to promote the Sani-wise toilet and build brand awareness. This could involve creating marketing materials, building relationships with potential customers, and engaging with the media.
• Infrastructure and equipment: Invest in infrastructure and equipment to improve efficiency and capacity, such as purchasing new manufacturing equipment or upgrading facilities.
• Community development: Invest in community development initiatives that align with the values and mission of the company. This could involve supporting projects that address issues such as sanitation, water access, or environmental sustainability in the communities where the company operates.

Segments

Beneficiaries:

• Urban poor: The primary beneficiaries of the Sani-wise toilet are the urban poor, particularly those living in low-income areas with limited access to improved sanitation facilities. By providing a safe, affordable, and sustainable solution for faecal sludge management, the Sani-wise toilet can help to improve public health and reduce the risk of disease transmission in these communities.
• Government agencies and NGOs: Government agencies and NGOs working in the sanitation sector may also benefit from the Sani-wise toilet, as it can help to address the pressing challenge of faecal sludge management and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Customers: Customers who purchase and use the Sani-wise toilet will also benefit from the product and its associated services, including pit emptying and renovation.

Customers:

The people or organizations who will pay to address this issue will be the customers who purchase and use the Sani-wise toilet, either through an initial down payment or monthly subscription fees. In addition, the company may also seek funding from grants, loans, or investments to cover the costs of product development, marketing, and other expenses.

Value Proposition

Beneficiary Value Proposition:

• Improved public health: The Sani-wise toilet provides a safe, affordable, and sustainable solution for faecal sludge management, which can help to improve public health and reduce the risk of disease transmission in low-income communities.
• Economic benefits: By providing basic services to customers, such as pit emptying and renovation, the company can generate income for the urban poor and contribute to economic development in the communities where it operates.
• Environmental sustainability: The Sani-wise toilet promotes environmental sustainability using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technology, which allows for the breakdown of faecal matter and the recovery of resources such as manure and BSF larvae.
• Convenience and ease of use: The Sani-wise toilet is designed to be convenient and easy to use, with features such as a lockable door and a tiled floor to make cleaning easy.

Impact Measures:

• User satisfaction: Surveying users of the Sani-wise toilet to gauge their satisfaction with the technology can help determine its impact.
• Disease reduction: Monitoring the incidence of diseases related to poor sanitation, such as diarrhea, can help assess the impact of the Sani-wise toilet on public health.
• Pollution control: Measuring the amount of plastic and other waste that is prevented from entering the environment using the Sani-wise toilet can help assess its impact on pollution control.
• Water savings: Tracking the amount of water saved using the Sani-wise toilet can help assess its impact on water conservation.
• BSF population and performance: Monitoring the population and performance of BSF larvae in the seeding area can help assess the effectiveness of the technology in breaking down faecal matter.
• Economic impact: Assessing the economic impact of the Sani-wise toilet, such as the costs and benefits of implementing the technology, can help determine its overall impact.

Customer Value Proposition:

• Improved sanitation: The Sani-wise toilet provides a hygienic and safe way to manage waste, reducing the risk of disease and improving public health.
• Environmental benefits: The use of the Sani-wise toilet can help reduce plastic pollution and conserve water, making it an environmentally friendly option.
• Customizable: The Sani-wise toilet can be customized to suit the needs of the end user, making it a versatile solution for a variety of settings.
• Cost-effective: The use of the Sani-wise toilet may be more cost-effective in the long run compared to traditional sanitation systems, as it can reduce the need for water and other resources.
• Convenience: The Sani-wise toilet is designed to be easy to use and maintain, providing a convenient option for waste management.

Revenue

• Sales: The Sani-wise toilet will be sold to individuals or organizations, such as schools, hospitals, and businesses, providing a revenue stream through sales.
• Service fees: The Sani-wise toilet will be provided as a service to users, with fees charged for its use. This could include fees for maintenance, repair, and waste management. Grants and subsidies: The Sani-wise toilet could potentially receive funding from grants or subsidies, either from government agencies or private organizations.

There are several paths to financial sustainability for the Sani-wise toilet project, given the proposed loan structure for customers. One key factor to consider is the feasibility of the loan terms for the target population. It will be important to ensure that the down payment and monthly charge are affordable for the intended customers and that the loan terms are reasonable and fair.

One potential way to increase the financial sustainability of the project is to seek funding from grants and other sources, such as NGOs and government support. This could help to cover some of the upfront costs of purchasing and installing the toilets, as well as provide ongoing support for maintenance and operation.

Another potential approach could be to focus on building partnerships with local businesses and organizations to help support the project. This could involve working with local utilities, for example, to provide the necessary infrastructure for the toilets or to incorporate the toilets into existing waste management systems. Partnering with local businesses could also provide opportunities for revenue generation through the sale of products or services related to the toilets, such as fertilizers produced through the BSF process.