Water Security
Water security is of great importance in sub-Saharan Africa, where poor rural farmers depend largely on the rains as their main source of crop irrigation. Access to water is essential in fulfilling basic human needs and through agriculture it contributes to the food security of rural households and improves their quality of health.
Over-grazing of land, deforestation and climate change all harm the region’s water security and threaten the livelihoods of the rural communities. The impact of climate change can be seen in the unpredictable frequency and level of rainfall, leading to an increase in droughts and floods, particularly in low-lying regions. Droughts have become more frequent in sub-Saharan Africa, where 66 per cent of the land is either desert or dry land. Their devastating effects can reverse any development gains and lead to famine, loss of life and migration. Intense farming practices and the clearing of trees has also damaged the natural water-table of the land.
gorta recognises the importance of water security and is working with partners in sub-Saharan Africa to develop integrated water management schemes, where communities can harness efficient irrigation practices. Water security projects funded by gorta aim to benefit rural households by improving agriculture techniques, contributing to the livelihoods of communities.
Water Security Projects
The Same district in Northern Tanzania experiences a high level of drought. A rural area bordering Kenya, the region needs restoration and updating of its irrigation canals. Overall, the area lacks...
Musoma district, in the northern part of Tanzania and on the eastern shores of Lake Victoria, endures a dry season of seven months. During this period, people in the area spend more time fetching...
