SAFI Latrine

SAFI latrine, Kenya. Photo: usafi-kenya.com
Over 90% of latrines in use are pit latrines, which are often temporary - and some are dangerous to use. The SAFI latrine minimizes this risk.

SNV has produced the affordable SAFI (Kiswahili for ‘clean’) latrine for both urban and rural families with the help of a design from VETA, Vocational Educational and Training Authority, in Mwanza, Tanzania.

Contents

SAFI meets needs

SNV surveyed rural households, suppliers, and policy makers in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania across 10 rural districts to determine the following eight criteria desired in a latrine.

1. Durability – permanent structure that can survive the rainy season
2. Affordable
3. Safety – 90% of latrines are pit latrines which are prone to collapse
4. Easy to clean
5. Not be smelly
6. Have a pan that doesn't spill
7. Provide women with a place to bathe in privacy
8. Attractive

SAFI latrine has two designs:
• one for wet regions and
• one for more arid regions.

The SAFI meets durability and safety desires by covering the pit with a wire-mesh-and-concrete slab and provides a private place for bathing. A ventilation system and pan cover that is removable with one foot prevents insects from entering the toilet and minimizes smell.

Implementation

The SAFI is being used in Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Zambia.

Costs

Cost is reported as low as USD 70 purchased and installed.

Acknowledgements