When shit hits the fan: The challenge of providing resilient sanitation systems to those most vulnerable to the climate crisis

Challenges
The global population living in informal settlements is rapidly increasing, often in areas vulnerable to
natural hazards. Climate change and poorly planned urbanization are expected to exacerbate these
hazards. There is limited evidence on what constitutes a climate-resilient (CR) sanitation system,
particularly in informal settlements. Existing studies are often biased, incomplete, and focused on
high-income urban areas (Hyde-Smith et al., 2022). Additionally, resilience assessment methods are
typically data-intensive and technically complex, making them unsuitable for many contexts lacking
adequate data (Trigg et al., 2022).

Methodology
This study begins globally with a systematic review of available evidence, running from April 2024 to
early 2025.
The next phase involves fieldwork in Nairobi, using participatory flood modelling and co-production
techniques to assess risk and develop citywide management solutions. Initial models will be built from
global datasets, then refined using local data through interviews and workshops. Workshops in Nairobi
will explore future flood risks and urbanization impacts on sanitation systems, promoting collaborative
solutions.
The third phase focusses on Kibera, analysing sanitation service provision and user experience during
a recent flood. This will first involve desk-based study, reviewing information provided by KDI. I will
then collect primary data including surveys and interviews to understand service and user experience
attributes.

Impact
I aim to enhance understanding of resilient sanitation systems and improve CR sanitation for
vulnerable communities.
The KPSP project was well-funded and executed, but the 2024 floods devastated Kibera. An unbiased
review of its successes and challenges will be valuable for future resilience-building efforts.
Through participatory research, I seek to empower local communities, raise awareness of CR
sanitation and flood risk, and engage government to create policies that strengthen sanitation
resilience and support affected communities.