John Nguthiru
John Nguthiru is the CEO of Aqua Clara Kenya, a not-for-profit social enterprise transforming access to safe drinking water across the region. Appointed to the role at just 27, and now leading the organization at 37, John has spent a decade at the helm, building a model that balances affordability, local assembly, and community empowerment. Even in the face of lucrative job offers, he’s remained steadfast in his mission, driven by purpose rather than prestige.
Under his leadership, Aqua Clara Kenya has scaled the distribution of low-cost, high-impact water filtration systems to schools, households, and health facilities, improving the health outcomes of thousands in underserved areas. His approach combines practical innovation with deep community engagement, training local entrepreneurs to become water champions and embedding water safety awareness at the grassroots.
John’s work is emblematic of a new generation of African changemakers who see business, not as an end, but as a tool for social transformation. Through Aqua Clara, he is not only addressing a fundamental public health challenge but also proving that long-term impact stems from consistency, local solutions, and values-driven leadership.