Water Resources Availability and Accessibility for Water Security and Improved Livelihoods in Kenyan Drylands; Case Study of Isiolo and Samburu Counties

Abstract

This research presents a comprehensive study on water resources in the semi-arid regions of Isiolo and Samburu counties in Kenya, with a focus on the conservancies. The study employed a multidisciplinary approach to evaluate water availability, accessibility, quality, and suitability for improved livelihoods in these regions. Data was collected through literature reviews, site visits, and laboratory experiments, with a specific focus on groundwater and surface water sources. Our study revealed that the primary source of domestic water was from boreholes. They had an average depth of approximately 70 m, with average yields of 2 to 6 m3/hr and were strategically located along the riparian areas of Laggas, which are fairly fractured, allowing for recharge of floodwater. Some areas had poor groundwater yields of 1- 2 m3/hr which could be attributed to the hard geological formations and limited recharge areas within the region. The areas geological composition comprises of volcanic layers of basalts, trachytes, phonolites overlain by regolith, which retain water except the basalts and trachytes have limited water storage capacity resulting into poor yields when fractured. There was a diversification of water resource use including; water pans, springs, rivers, boreholes, earth dams, rock catchment and gravity water supply to curb seasonality. The TDS, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), and electrical conductivity (EC) were within the WHO recommended standards except for variations such as high alkalinity, high fluoride levels, and excess algae observed especially in the water pans indicating the presence of pollution. Identified challenges included: construction and design problems, improper siting, siltation, lack of protection, absence of spillways and silt traps, and contamination by livestock and wildlife. The research highlights the significance of diversified water sources, alternative energy solutions, groundwater potential, and community-based management for addressing water scarcity and improving access to clean and safe water for arid livelihoods sustainability.