Kenya is stepping up efforts to assess, map and sustainably manage its underground water resources through a series of scientific projects aimed at improving water security across the country.
Water Cabinet Secretary Eric Muga announced the progress following a briefing by the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Centre on Groundwater Resources Education, Training and Research, Geol. Patrick Murunga.
In a social media post, Muga said the Centre plays a critical role in Kenya’s water sector through scientific mapping, assessment and analysis of groundwater systems to establish the country’s underground water potential.
Among the key initiatives discussed was the Groundwater Mapping for the Nairobi Aquifer System (GROWANA) project, which seeks to improve understanding of groundwater resources within the Nairobi Aquifer System.
The CS also highlighted the Watch project, which involves assessing water resources in the Chyulu Hills using muon tomography, an advanced scientific technique that can help investigate underground geological structures.
Muga further noted the Centre’s ongoing partnership with the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM), which is expected to strengthen scientific research and technical capacity in groundwater assessment.
Another major initiative is the planned introduction of Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) in Nairobi, a water management approach designed to replenish underground water reserves and support the sustainable use of groundwater.
“The Regional Centre on Groundwater Resources Education, Training and Research plays a vital role in Kenya’s water sector by initiating and conducting scientific mapping, assessment, and data analysis of groundwater systems to quantify and qualify the country’s groundwater potential,” Muga stated.
The initiatives come amid growing emphasis on sustainable water resource management, with groundwater expected to play an important role in strengthening water availability for households, industries and other users.
The planned Managed Aquifer Recharge project is particularly significant as it seeks to replenish underground water reserves in the Nairobi region, potentially supporting long-term water security.
