How Nothern Kenya is tackling water insecurity скачать в хорошем качестве

How Nothern Kenya is tackling water insecurity

Water insecurity in Kenya. Shallow wells water harvesting along the River Moite in Marsabit County is a common method used by local communities to access groundwater, particularly during dry seasons. These wells are typically hand-dug and tap into the shallow water table near the riverbed, making them relatively inexpensive and easy to construct using local labor and materials. One major advantage of this method is its accessibility—families can draw water close to their homes without relying on distant water sources. Additionally, shallow wells provide a consistent supply for domestic use and small-scale irrigation, contributing to improved food security. However, there are notable disadvantages. Since the wells are shallow, they are highly vulnerable to seasonal fluctuations and may dry up during prolonged droughts, which are common in Marsabit. Furthermore, without proper lining and covers, these wells are susceptible to contamination from surface runoff, livestock, and human activities, posing serious health risks such as waterborne diseases. The absence of regular water quality monitoring further exacerbates this challenge. Despite these drawbacks, shallow wells remain a vital water source for many in the region, and their sustainability could be improved through community training, proper maintenance, and integration with other water harvesting techniques.