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Is the self-read water meter a pro-poor innovation? Evidence from a low-income settlement in Nairobi

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  • Nilsson, David
  • Blomkvist, Pär

Abstract

This study investigates the Jisomee Mita, an innovation based on ICT-powered metering at property level aimed at increasing access to piped water and sewerage in low-income areas in Nairobi, Kenya. We present empirical findings from field investigations and actor interviews, which are analysed using a novel framework drawing on studies of business models, sustainability transition, and the history of technology. We explore the critical interface between utility infrastructure and potential customers as a locus of innovation. We find that the property owners are the main benefactors of self-read meters, while low-income end-users still depend on over-priced and unsafe water. The Jisomee Mita thus cannot be called a pro-poor innovation in its current implementation and context.

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  • Nilsson, David & Blomkvist, Pär, 2021. "Is the self-read water meter a pro-poor innovation? Evidence from a low-income settlement in Nairobi," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 68(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:juipol:v:68:y:2021:i:c:s0957178720301363
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jup.2020.101143
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    Cited by:

    1. Solis, Miriam & Bashar, Samira Binte, 2022. "Social equity implications of advanced water metering infrastructure," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 79(C).
    2. Amankwaa, Godfred & Heeks, Richard & Browne, Alison L., 2023. "Smartening up: User experience with smart water metering infrastructure in an African city," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 80(C).
    3. Blomkvist, Pär & Karpouzoglou, Timos & Nilsson, David & Wallin, Jörgen, 2023. "Entrepreneurship and alignment work in the Swedish water and sanitation sector," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 74(C).

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