Water scarcity in Kenya

Human populations throughout Kenya have been affected by a lack of clean drinking water due in large part to the overuse of land and increases in community settlements.

A specific example of this is in the Mau Forest, in the highlands of Kenya, that is a major watershed for the country.

In the Mau Complex, individuals have used land for their personal gain, creating homes and farms at the expense of the natural biodiversity.

[1] The destruction of trees throughout the forest has caused severe soil erosion, which pollutes the water.

The quickly growing population puts pressure on water resources through agriculture, land and energy uses as well as other factors.

About 80% (percent) of Kenya's water resources are completely unprotected but not undamaged by the growing population and agricultural practices.

[3] Kenya's water systems are recognised internationally for their importance to species diversity and bird migration.

[3] When large areas of forest are logged, ecosystem services such as water supply may be negatively affected.

[3] Large areas will continue to be deforested if current logging rates and population growth do not decrease.

The hole is drilled and once water is hit a pump is installed and cement cap put in place.

They teach people the importance of having clean water and proper sanitation to prevent disease and increase health.

This is an incentive, but the outcome still seems bleak as these tribes are more interested in their own wellbeing than that of people miles down the river.

[9] A number of acts and reforms have been put into motion to aid Kenya's situation, but the country still suffers from a water crisis worse than almost any other in the world.

[11] Some corporations have seen a fair amount of success from their efforts to contribute to a healthier water supply.

The National Water Conservation and Pipeline Corporation has offered a great deal of aid since its establishment in June 1988.

The organisation works to develop dams and dykes, manage flood control, and help with land drainage.

Since 1997 the Danish Refugee Council has been providing relief services and contributing to the development of sanitary water systems throughout Kenya and other parts of East Africa.