In the heart of Tanzania, a hidden treasure lies beneath the surface, waiting to be tapped into. Groundwater, a vital yet often overlooked resource, holds the key to transforming livelihoods and mitigating conflicts in the Kagera Sub-Basin. A recent study published in the journal ‘Frontiers in Water’ (which translates to ‘Frontiers in Water’ in English) sheds light on the untapped potential of this resource, offering a beacon of hope for the region’s future.
The Kagera Sub-Basin, nestled in the North West Highlands of Tanzania, is a microcosm of the challenges faced by many developing countries. Water scarcity, exacerbated by climate change, is a growing concern, and groundwater, which serves as a primary water supply for approximately two billion people globally, could be the solution. However, as Estella Mgala, lead author of the study and a researcher at the Institute of Resource Assessment, University of Dar es Salaam, explains, “The potential of groundwater in the region is significantly underutilized due to a combination of factors, including inadequate knowledge, poor technology, socio-economic challenges, and increasing pollution.”
The study, which employed a mixed-methods approach, including key informant interviews, household questionnaires, and focus group discussions, revealed that farming is the dominant livelihood activity in the region. However, water quality and availability are declining, exacerbating the challenges faced by the local communities. Despite the groundwater potential, disparities in knowledge, infrastructure development, technological capacity, and enforcement abilities significantly influence its access.
One of the most striking findings of the study is the differing priorities among government actors, which hinder the optimal exploitation of groundwater. This, in turn, exacerbates issues of water rights and conflicts. As Mgala points out, “Most households access groundwater through inexpensive, simple technologies requiring minimal financial investment. However, the challenges such as declining water tables, well deepening and enlargement costs, limited financial resources, inadequate technology, and weak governance impede effective utilization.”
The implications of this research for the energy sector are significant. As water scarcity increases, so does the demand for energy-intensive desalination and water treatment processes. By tapping into the region’s groundwater potential, the energy sector could reduce its water footprint, leading to more sustainable and cost-effective operations. Moreover, by improving water access and quality, the study could help mitigate water conflicts, creating a more stable and secure environment for energy investments.
The study also highlights the need for a better understanding of water processes, improved access, and quality to mitigate water conflicts. This, in turn, could inform policy-making, planning, and interventions aimed at enhancing the resilience of rural communities in the face of climate variability and water scarcity.
As we look to the future, the findings of this study offer a roadmap for harnessing the power of groundwater to improve livelihoods, reduce conflicts, and promote sustainable development. By addressing the challenges identified in the study, we can unlock the full potential of this vital resource, paving the way for a more water-secure and prosperous future for all. The study published in ‘Frontiers in Water’ is a significant step in this direction, offering valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers, planners, and stakeholders in the water, sanitation, and drainage industry.