
Majik Water spearheads a groundbreaking approach to combating water scarcity in Kenya’s arid regions, utilizing innovative air-to-water technology to revolutionize clean drinking water accessibility and make a global impact on affected communities.
Seeds of Innovation
In the arid landscapes of Kenya, where water scarcity presents a formidable challenge, Majik Water emerges as a timely innovation. These excessive droughts in that region prompted the creators to come up with a design that could harvest water from the atmosphere. Founded in 2017 by Beth Koigi, Clare Sewell, and Anastasia Kaschenko, this social enterprise seeks to revolutionize access to clean drinking water in water-scarce communities. The genesis of Majik Water traces back to Beth Koigi‘s pivotal moment at Chuka University in Nairobi in 2012, when she discovered that the water flowing from her tap was not only brown but also contaminated. Fueled by the urgency to address this crisis, Beth Koigi embarked on a journey to create a sustainable and affordable solution.
Driven by the mission to establish a novel source of clean drinking water, Majik Water specializes in air-to-water technologies, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. The initiative harnesses solar thermal energy and sponge-like desiccant materials to extract moisture from the air, providing an innovative solution to communities grappling with water scarcity. As succinctly expressed by Majik Water, “If you have air, you can have drinking water.”
At its core, Majik Water envisions a world where water scarcity is overcome through accessible and sustainable means. The company’s values are rooted in sustainability, affordability, and innovation, with a commitment to making a tangible impact on communities facing water challenges. The heart of Majik Water’s technology lies in simplicity: a sponge-like material that attracts water molecules and a solar-powered intake fan that pulls air through, allowing for the extraction of water droplets from the atmosphere.
Currently operating in Kenya, Majik Water has already made substantial strides, producing over 200,000 liters of water for more than 1900 people across 30 deployments. Beyond the quantitative impact, Majik Water’s contributions extend to environmental sustainability, notably reducing freshwater usage that depletes finite groundwater reserves and curbing greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the need for firewood and charcoal in water purification processes.
The founders, Beth Koigi, Clare Sewell, and Anastasia Kaschenko, have earned accolades for their groundbreaking solution, winning prestigious awards such as the €15,000 first prize at the EDF Pulse Africa awards and securing second place in MIT’s Water Innovation Prize. Their acceptance into the esteemed Next 36 entrepreneurship program in Canada further underscores the recognition of Majik Water’s potential to drive transformative change.
Majik Water‘s impact extends beyond borders, collaborating with global entities like Microsoft and ABInBev to address the water crisis in drought-affected areas. Notably, their endeavors have been showcased in the Netflix documentary “Brave Blue World,” alongside influential figures like Matt Damon and Jaden Smith. Recognition from The Guardian, UN Environment, MIT Water Innovation, the Royal Academy of Engineering, the BBC, the Weather Channel, and the Financial Times solidifies Majik Water’s place among the “50 Ideas to Change the World.”
Harvesting Hope
Majik Water’s innovative water generation process is a seamless fusion of advanced technology, sustainability, and adaptability, revolutionizing the approach to atmospheric water generation (AWG). Through a combination of groundbreaking techniques and environmentally conscious design, Majik Water ensures the delivery of clean, safe drinking water to water-scarce communities.
At the heart of the technique lies a sponge-like material known as desiccants, strategically designed to absorb water from the atmosphere. This ingenious material forms the basis of the water-harvesting process, distinguishing the social enterprise from other AWG technologies. To address the cost challenges, Majik Water strategically employs silica as the desiccant material. Silica, a low-cost material, contributes to lowering the overall production costs of water while enhancing the efficiency of the water-harvesting process.
A pivotal element is the use of solar panels to power the entire water generation process. A solar-powered fan draws air into the desiccant, initiating the absorption of moisture from the atmosphere. This solar-powered approach not only reduces operational costs but also minimizes the company’s carbon footprint, marking a significant stride in environmental conservation.
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Once the desiccant has collected the air’s moisture, it is exposed to heat, a process that induces condensation. This condensed moisture then undergoes a final transformation into water through a condensing coil, creating a reliable source of clean drinking water.
Majik Water’s approach distinguishes itself within the AWG industry. While electronically powered condensation is prevalent, Majik Water opts for an innovative method that uses desiccants to absorb moisture directly from the air. This novel technique mitigates the need for compressing air into vapor, reducing energy consumption and the costs associated with conventional AWG methods.
Majik Water ensures the quality and safety of the generated water through a comprehensive three-level water treatment system. Reverse osmosis, activated carbon filtration, and mineralization collectively contribute to refining the water. This multi-stage treatment not only eliminates impurities and microorganisms but also enriches the water with essential minerals like magnesium and calcium, ensuring both purity and health benefits.
The company offers a diverse range of product units tailored to address varying water needs across different sectors. The 500-liter unit emerges as a versatile solution, finding applications in specialized farming equipped with drip irrigation, providing off-grid water for niche industries in tandem with solar PV power, and delivering clean drinking water to communities distant from water grids or reliable sources, albeit necessitating additional filtration and sterile storage.
The 120-liter unit caters to both household and office consumption, ensuring a sustainable and clean water source. Additionally, it supports small-scale drip irrigation or domestic water use, presenting a flexible and accessible option for diverse settings. Meanwhile, the compact 25-liter unit focuses on meeting the drinking water requirements of households and offices, offering a convenient and efficient solution for daily water needs in smaller-scale environments. Through this range of units, the social enterprise addresses a spectrum of water challenges, promoting accessibility, sustainability, and innovation across various sectors.
Green Horizons
In the face of mounting global water scarcity, Majik Water introduces a solution that not only addresses a critical challenge but does so sustainably and with profound social impact.
Majik Water’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the operational aspects of its device. By harnessing solar power, the company significantly reduces its reliance on traditional energy sources, contributing to a noteworthy reduction in carbon emissions. This dual-pronged approach of harnessing renewable energy and extracting water from the atmosphere distinguishes Majik Water’s solution as not only innovative but also eco-friendly.
The environmental benefits are substantial, with the device alleviating the burden on finite groundwater reserves, a critical resource often overexploited in traditional water-sourcing methods. Furthermore, by sidestepping the need for firewood and charcoal in water boiling, Majik Water contributes to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
Socially, the technology offers a reliable source of clean and safe drinking water to communities that traditionally lack access to such resources. Beyond hydration, this accessibility enhances the health and well-being of these communities, liberating valuable time previously spent on water collection. This newfound time translates into increased opportunities for education, work, and other productive endeavors
Majik Water’s alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals further underscores its commitment to positive global change. Primarily, the company contributes to SDG 6 – (Clean Water and Sanitation) by providing an innovative and sustainable solution to water scarcity. In tandem, their utilization of solar power aligns with SDG 7 – (Affordable and Clean Energy), showcasing a holistic approach to addressing interconnected global challenges.
The reduction in secondary emissions from trucking water and primary greenhouse gas emissions reinforces the company’s contribution to SDG 11 – (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 13 – (Climate Action), respectively, a critical goal in the pursuit of a more sustainable future. Lastly, by aiming to reach 100 million people by 2030, the enterprise is contributing to SDG 1 – (No Poverty) and SDG 3 – (Good Health and Well-Being), as access to clean water is crucial for maintaining good health and livelihood.
Ripples of Change
The impact extends far beyond the environmental realm, profoundly influencing communities and aligning with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In response to the impending water crisis affecting 1.8 billion people by 2025, as projected by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, Majik Water’s atmospheric water generators are already catering to over 1900 people. This tangible output underscores the company’s commitment to addressing a fundamental human need in the face of escalating water scarcity.
The primary environmental impact lies in the reduction of freshwater usage and the safeguarding of finite groundwater reserves that are essential for ecological balance. The technology employed by Majik Water leverages the atmosphere, a sustainable and renewable water source that significantly contributes to water resource conservation. The operation of the enterprise’s 1000L/day system results in a remarkable reduction of 2290kg of CO2e per day and a substantial annual decrease of 835,850kg of CO2e, assuming consistent daily activity. Secondary greenhouse gas reductions stem from diminished transport emissions related to water trucking and a decrease in the electricity demand for water bottling operations utilizing borehole water.
The community and societal impact are equally profound. Through the provision of over 200,000 liters of water, Majik Water not only quenches the thirst of underserved communities but also elevates their overall well-being. This newfound access to clean water not only fosters good health but also liberates time that was previously spent on arduous water collection tasks. This liberation enables communities to redirect their efforts toward education, work, and other productive activities, breaking the cycle of water-induced hardships.
Deeply ingrained in the communities they serve, Majik Water’s systems currently produce over 200 cubic meters of water for more than 1900 people, marking 20 high-volume deployments and 10 small-scale deployments. This tangible impact reflects the company’s commitment to changing lives at the grassroots level.
Manufacturing and distribution are integral components of Majik Water’s local engagement strategy. The devices operate by drawing in air through an electrostatic filter, channeling it over a refrigerated coil where moisture condenses, and then directing the condensed water into a holding tank. This straightforward yet innovative process underscores their dedication to creating solutions tailored to the specific needs and conditions of the regions they serve.
Beyond functionality, Majik Water‘s commitment to sustainability is at the core of its operations. With a primary focus on reducing freshwater usage that depletes finite groundwater reserves, the company champions environmental conservation as a paramount goal. Moreover, their contribution to climate change mitigation is evident in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the use of firewood and charcoal in water boiling processes. This dual commitment to both local communities and environmental stewardship positions Majik Water as a beacon of responsible and sustainable innovation.
Echoes of Success
User testimonials echo the tangible impact Majik Water has on individuals and communities facing water scarcity. Beth Koigi, CEO and Co-founder of Majik Water, emphasizes the urgency of their mission, noting that Kenya is experiencing extreme climate events, making underground water sources increasingly inaccessible. This sentiment underscores the immediacy and relevance of Majik Water’s innovations in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
At the Ark Children’s Home in Thika, Kenya, Majik Water’s filters have become a lifeline, providing 50 liters of drinking water daily, sourced directly from the atmosphere. Such testimonials exemplify the company’s ability to translate technological innovation into practical, life-changing solutions for those in need.
Looking ahead, Majik Water’s plans are ambitious. Intending to reach 100 million people by 2030, the company aims to expand its reach and amplify its positive influence on a global scale. The installation of more than 100-liter+ community devices signifies a commitment to increasing community-level access to clean water, addressing the anticipated water shortages in the next decade. Continuous technological refinement, increased efficiency, and accessibility are at the forefront of Majik Water’s strategy, ensuring their solutions evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of the communities they serve.
In their pursuit of a sustainable and water-secure future, Majik Water actively explores partnerships and collaborations to amplify their impact, reflecting a commitment to collective efforts in addressing global challenges. As the company navigates the intersection of innovation, community engagement, and environmental stewardship, Majik Water emerges as a trailblazer in the quest for a more sustainable and water-abundant world.
Founded on the principles of sustainability, innovation, and community empowerment, this social enterprise has redefined the narrative surrounding access to clean drinking water. Through pioneering air-to-water technologies and a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship, Majik Water not only addresses a fundamental human need but also pioneers a path toward a more sustainable future.
With accolades spanning continents and collaborations with global leaders, Majik Water’s impact resonates far beyond its operational borders. From providing lifelines to drought-affected communities to championing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, the company embodies a vision of positive change on a global scale.
As Majik Water charts its course toward reaching 100 million people by 2030, its journey serves as a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and dedication to creating a world where access to clean water is not a luxury but a fundamental human right.
Questions You Might Have
How does Majik Water’s desiccant-based water absorption differ from conventional air-to-water technologies, and what advantages does it offer in terms of efficiency and sustainability?
Majik Water is a social enterprise in Kenya that uses desiccant-based absorption technology to extract water from the air, even in low-humidity areas. Unlike other conventional technologies, this technology is versatile, scalable, and energy-efficient, with systems producing 25 to 1000 L/D for various uses. It operates best in arid regions but can function in low humidity, especially at night. The system uses renewable energy sources like solar, biogas, hybrid, and wind, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and electricity costs. Additionally, Majik Water’s desiccant technology is environmentally friendly as it does not rely on any chemicals, which are mostly found in other condensation-based systems.
Can Majik Water’s atmospheric water generation technology be adapted and successfully implemented in other regions facing water scarcity, and what challenges might arise in expanding its reach globally?
Majik Water’s atmospheric water generation technology effectively addresses water scarcity, impacting over 2,100 individuals by providing more than 300,000 liters of water through innovative off-grid devices. Beyond water provision, they establish micro-entrepreneur-operated kiosks, exemplified by an ongoing pilot project in Kakuma. Collaborations span Kenya, South Africa, and India with partners like Microsoft and AB-in-Bev, benefiting rural communities and institutions.
Specifically, the Jalimudi station in Andhra Pradesh supplies water to 600 villages, while in Gujarat’s Gandhigram village, 2000 L of water daily has been provided since 2015. In Northern Kenya, 5 AWG units support over 400 female students, and a 500 L/D unit serves 900 children and families in pediatric hospitals in Wajir and Mandera.
Challenges include infrastructure requirements, initial and operational costs, and cultural attitudes. However, with strategic planning and stakeholder engagement, Majik Water’s technology offers a promising solution to global water scarcity, facilitated by collaborations between governments, NGOs, communities, and technology providers.
With a focus on sustainability, what measures is Majik Water taking to ensure the responsible disposal or recycling of its devices, considering the potential long-term environmental impact of introducing new technologies into communities?
Majik Water’s technology is stationary, self-efficient, and eco-friendly. Eco-design principles are prioritized to minimize environmental impact. Before implementation, environmental impact assessments are conducted to identify and mitigate potential ecological consequences. The technology promotes a circular economy through take-back initiatives that facilitate material reuse and recycling, reduce waste and e-waste, and conserve resources.
Edited by Tomi Abe — Co-Publisher, Susinsight.