Kenyans in dry areas build sand dams to counter dry season

Introduction

On a dry riverbed in Kasengela village, residents are working together to build a sand dam. This structure, made of concrete, harvests water from seasonal rivers and creates an artificial aquifer that fills up during rainy seasons. The construction of sand dams has gained traction in dry regions of Kenya and other parts of Africa as a reliable water source in the face of prolonged drought caused by climate change.

The Importance of Sand Dams

Many communities in arid and semi-arid regions of Kenya, such as Machakos County, rely on seasonal rivers for water. Sand dams built on these rivers help minimize water loss through evaporation and recharge groundwater. With limited access to piped water and few reliable alternatives, sand dams have become increasingly important for these communities.

Benefits of Sand Dams

• Minimize water loss through evaporation
• Recharge groundwater
• Provide a reliable water source during dry seasons
• Reduce the need for long-distance water fetching
• Improve agricultural productivity
• Enhance access to clean water for domestic use

Case Study: Kyalika Village

In Makueni County, Rhoda Peter and her welfare group have built three sand dams along a nearby river. These dams have significantly improved their access to water, reducing the need to travel long distances to fetch water from springs in the faraway Mbooni Hills. The sand dams have provided a reliable water source throughout the year, even during the dry seasons.

Government Initiatives

The Makueni County government, in collaboration with partner organizations and residents, has been actively involved in building sand dams. By 2022, they had constructed 71 sand dams in the county. The government recognizes the dire water situation in the region and the impact it has on agriculture, health, and education. Sand dams offer a sustainable solution to these challenges by ensuring access to clean water and enabling communities to focus on economic activities.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
2. SDG 13: Climate Action
3. SDG 15: Life on Land

Proper Siting of Sand Dams

Scientists emphasize the importance of proper siting of sand dams for their effectiveness. Factors such as rainfall amount, soil composition, and rock formations must be considered when selecting the location for a sand dam. A study conducted in Kitui County found that about half of the surveyed sand dams were not functional due to unfavorable siting.

Expanding Impact

The success of sand dams in providing reliable water sources has gained the attention of governments and organizations in other local counties and countries. The Africa Sand Dam Foundation (ASDF), in collaboration with governments and nonprofits, has worked on sand dam projects in various countries, including Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Madagascar, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Somalia, and India.

Conclusion

Sand dams offer a sustainable solution to water scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions. By minimizing water loss through evaporation and recharging groundwater, these structures provide reliable water sources throughout the year. Proper siting and community-driven initiatives are crucial for the success of sand dams. As climate change continues to exacerbate drought conditions, sand dams play a vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals related to clean water, climate action, and life on land.

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