WATER FOR MANDERA

Mandera is an example of the arid lands in Kenya found on the northern parts, where there is an abundance of sand, which if extracted can build sky scrapers in the whole country. This area gets very hot and dry, however there are areas where farming is practiced by irrigation and very nice onions are produced. With regards to this topic, water tends to be scarce in drylands, you already know that the demand for water is usually not corresponding to the supply. Most of the local Mandera community are pastoralists who move their huge herds in search of water and pasture although some herders build ponds where they graze communally. When it rains in Mandera, like may deserts, it is usually after long drought periods, the water flows freely over the ground since there lacks sufficient vegetation to hold the water. This extreme rainfall causes flashflooding in some areas and collection of flood waters in burrows. River Daua/Daawa/ Dawa which is seasonal cuts between Mandera in Kenya and Ethiopia and Ethiopia and Somalia borders, during heavy rains on the Ethiopian hills making the river passable by dhow due to high water currents: during dry seasons, the floor of the river is quite sandy and travelers walk on foot between the countries. Some farmers have tapped water from the river to use it for irrigation producing vegetables and fruits while a few have embraced drilling of wells. The water used by residential and commercial buildings are from wells. During dry periods, the wells, just as the river or ponds dry up remaining with mud forcing the locals to go over long distances in search of water. Though those who have storage tanks and have harvested rain water do not feel the brunt.The water in Mandera is saline and fit for most domestic chores but water purification measures can be advocated for. If a desert can be transformed into a forest, then I would like to bet on Mandera. It is not impossible, if the relevant authorities backed up by the local communities can work together without conflicts of interest, then Mandera can have water all year round regardless of the seasons. A lot of water is stored underground and if drilling of deep wells or boreholes is done, then the issue of lack of or insufficient water can be completely eradicated. Other than creating awareness on rainwater harvesting at the household levels, excavation of water pans can be encouraged to tap rainwater on a larger surface to serve a big community. The water can be used in production of a variety of farm produce to reduce outsourcing of farms in neighboring counties. Availability of water in the marginalized community will eradicate poverty and help children remain in school. Water for Mandera will reduce risks associated with droughts, famines or flashfloods and conflicts over the water resources. Water should not just be in large quantity but also available in good quality to alleviate water related diseases and aid in maintaining proper sanitation. Let the young generation be taught ways of improving the natural resources to enable sustainable utilization while promoting development.