During the recently concluded 2026 AFWASA AAEA Congress in Yaoundé, Cameroon, Dr Joy Riungu, Director of the Sanitation Research Institute (SRI) at Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST), received the African Woman in WASH Award under the Inclusive Innovation and Entrepreneurship category, recognizing her leadership and impact in advancing sanitation innovation across Africa.

Dr Riungu established SRI as a Centre of Excellence in sanitation research, capacity development, innovation, and community outreach. Under her leadership, MUST now offers a comprehensive academic pathway in sanitation and waste management, including a PhD, MSc, Bachelor of Science, diploma, and short professional courses for practitioners.

A major milestone was securing laboratory equipment worth KES 60 million through the Instrumental Access Program by Seeding Labs. The enhanced laboratory supports rigorous analysis of faecal sludge, evidence-based planning, appropriate technology selection, and informed regulatory standards, strengthening Kenya’s shift to data-driven sanitation interventions. Her pioneering seeded container-based faecal sludge management system promotes circular sanitation by transforming waste into valuable resources while advancing climate resilient solutions. Dr Riungu has mobilized resources for research and capacity building and serves on the Scientific & Technical Committee of the Water and Sanitation Providers Association (WASPA).

The award was presented by CEO Anthony Njaramba and Dr Stephen Karanja at the WASPA offices.