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State of Africa’s Environment: Why water crisis in Africa
Context:
Water security goes beyond a country’s natural water availability, focusing on the effective management of these resources, according to the 2024 annual State of Africa’s Environment report published by the Centre for Science and Environment and Down To Earth magazine.
Case Study: Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
- Water Access: Citizens often travel 6-7 km daily to fetch 10-15 litres of water for families of 6-7 members.
- Gender Roles: Women primarily handle water collection, impacting their education and time.
- Paradox of Abundance: Despite being termed “Africa’s water-rich” country with over 50% of Africa’s surface water reserves, many face severe water scarcity.
Water Resources in Africa
- Geographical Features: Africa is home to 17 rivers, over 160 lakes, and vast wetlands.
- Aquifers: Africa’s aquifers contain more than 100 times the annual renewable freshwater resources.
- Renewable Resources: Africa’s renewable water resources average 3,930 km³, constituting just under 9% of the global total.
Water Stress and Insecurity
- Drought Conditions: Africa is the second driest continent, and Sub-Saharan Africa has been classified as the most water-stressed region.
- Statistics: Nearly 36% of people in Sub-Saharan Africa are water insecure, with countries like Cameroon and Ethiopia showing high rates.
- Socio-Demographic Factors: Low-income individuals and rural populations are more prone to water insecurity.
Global Context
- Critical Insecurity: Africa accounts for 22% of the world’s critically water-insecure population, with Eritrea, Sudan, and Ethiopia as the most affected nations.
- WASH Access: Only 15% of Africans have access to safely managed drinking water, contributing to significant health issues.
Health and Economic Impact
- Waterborne Diseases: Unsafe water and sanitation lead to high mortality rates, particularly among children under five.
- Economic Costs: Water scarcity could reduce GDP by up to 6% in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2050.
Sanitation Challenges
- Open Defecation: About 196 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa practice open defecation, with limited progress towards safe sanitation.
- Health Risks: Poor sanitation practices exacerbate water pollution and related health issues.
Solutions and Recommendations
- Governance and Investment: Transition governance could enhance local water security, but funding for water systems has decreased.
- Community Involvement: Strengthening community trust in climate forecasts and improving water management infrastructure are essential for resilience against climate impacts.
- Decentralised Systems: Adoption of decentralised, flexible water systems is recommended to alleviate current insecurities in regions like the Somali Region of Ethiopia.
Conclusion:
The state of water resources in Africa underscores a critical paradox: abundant natural resources do not guarantee water security. Effective management, investment in infrastructure, and community involvement are essential to address the ongoing water crisis.