The streets come alive during Market Days in Western Kenya, which serve as essential hubs for trade and commerce in the region. Bicycles and motorcycle taxis, known as “boda bodas,” skillfully navigate the roads between livestock, while villagers hurriedly transport goods on their heads or in wheelbarrows. Everyone is rushing to market, preparing to buy or sell various goods.

But Friendly Water sees Market Days as more than a shopping event. We see them as an opportunity to promote hygiene and expand economic opportunities for villagers who sell our soap.

We may take something as simple as soap for granted, but according to a 2021 UNICEF report, 86% of Kenyans struggle to access soap and running water. Hand hygiene saves lives by reducing the spread of diseases like cholera and COVID-19.

Market Days allow us to educate the local community about clean water, sanitation, sustainable food, safe cooking, and more. This forum allows us to create social, health, and economic benefits for our communities - a core concept of our mission. We take part in 10 of these vibrant open-air markets each month. Some are held daily, while others are held weekly or bi-weekly, allowing us to frequently interact with community members.

Market Days hold more than economic and cultural significance. While they play a crucial role in providing space for commerce and community interaction, they also save lives.