Davis & Shirtliff has completed over 900 community projects under its Improving Lives Initiative, significantly boosting access to clean water and solar-powered energy solutions across Kenya and the wider East African region.
Through partnerships with organisations including , the company delivered 108 water and renewable energy projects, directly benefiting more than 200,000 people. The projects are centered on sustainable, solar-powered systems designed to tackle persistent water and energy challenges in underserved communities.
Tackling Climate and Access Challenges
Speaking on the milestone, Managing Director Edward Davis emphasized the urgency of addressing water and energy insecurity amid climate change.
“Through the Improving Lives Initiative, we are combining partnerships, innovation and technical expertise to deliver practical, sustainable solutions that are improving lives where the need is greatest,” he said.
The initiative, part of the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts, focuses on institutions serving vulnerable and marginalised communities, with most installations featuring solar-powered water supply systems that reduce costs and environmental impact.
Transforming Lives on the Ground
Several projects highlight the initiative’s real-world impact:
- Isiolo County: A demonstration fruit orchard now uses an automated drip irrigation system, improving water efficiency, boosting crop yields, and promoting climate-smart agriculture in arid regions.
- Joytown Secondary School, Thika: A solarised 2.2kW borehole pump restored reliable water access for over 400 students and 50 staff, after high electricity costs had disrupted supply.
- Kajiado County (Oltepesi SDA Church): A new solar-powered pumping system now delivers 15,000 litres of clean water daily to more than 300 residents, reducing dependence on unsafe river water.
Bridging the Access Gap
The initiative comes at a critical time when access to basic services remains uneven across Kenya. Data from the and indicates that only about 25% of households have access to safely managed drinking water.
Meanwhile, government data shows that approximately a quarter of Kenyans lack reliable electricity, particularly in rural areas.
Building Resilient Communities
says its growing portfolio of projects demonstrates how targeted investment in water and renewable energy can deliver lasting impact—improving livelihoods, strengthening resilience, and expanding access to essential services.
With sustainability at its core, the initiative continues to play a key role in bridging critical infrastructure gaps while empowering communities across Kenya