CHUKA grapples with water crisis

The residents rarely complain about the situation because they have adapted to the lifestyle of the area.This article delves into underlying causes of the water scarcity and the efforts to mitigate this pressing issue.

THE DAILY STRUGGLE FOR WATER

In Ndagani, access to clean and reliable water is a daily challenge to comrades at large. Natives often travel long distances to fetch water from nearby rivers.Some are forced to hire lorries to transport water to their homes due to the long distance moved in search of clean and reliable water.

Few are capable to purchase water from water supplying companies which charge expensively per litre.These causes high cost of living around the area.These arduous tasks consumes valuable time and energy impacting productivity and quality of life.

IMPACT ON AGRICULTURE

Agriculture, the backbone of Ndagani’s economy, has been severely affected by water scarcity.Farmers rely heavily on rainfall for crop cultivation, making them vulnerable to erratic weather patterns and prolonged dry spells.The lack of irrigation infrastructure exacerbates the situation, leading to reduced crop yields and food insecurity.

HEALTH IMPLICATION

Limited access to clean water has significant health implications.Residents are at a higher risk of contracting waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid.The situation is further aggravated by inadequate sanitation facilities, leading to poor hygiene practices and increased health risks.

EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN PERIL

The water crisis extends to educational institutions in Ndagani like Ndagani secondary  and primary, Chuka KMTC and Chuka University. Students and staff faces water shortage which disrupt their daily activities.

Chuka University being a higher education institution in the area tries to curb water crisis within its environment to ensure there is conducive environment for learning. This helps to ensure academic excellence of the University and other education institutions within.

CONTRIBUTING FACTORS

1.ENVIROMENTAL DEGRADATION

Deforestation and land degradation have reduced the area’s natural water retention capacity, leading to diminished water sources.

2.CLIMATE CHANGE

Unpredictable rainfall patterns and prolonged drought attributed to climate change, has exacerbated water scarcity in the region.

3. POPULATION GROWTH

Chuka University is an institution that has greatly influenced the increase of migrants to Ndagani centre. According to recent research, there is high number of migrants than the natives.This has led to exertion of additional pressure on already limited water resources, leading to over-exertion and depletion.

COMMUNITY PROJECTS   

Local community has embarked on rainwater harvesting project, drilling of boreholes and construction of small dams to enhance water availability.

GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION 

Kenya National Government with association with Tharaka Nithi county Government has initiated projects for water management with an aim to curb water crisis in the area.

NGO PARTICIPATION

Non–Governmental Organizations are actively involved in promoting sustainable water management practices and supporting infrastructure development in Ndagani as a water stressed region.

THE ROAD AHEAD

-Sustainable practices

-Policy implementation

-Infrastructure development 

The water crisis in Ndagani is a complex issue that intertwines economic ,social and environmental factors.Through collaborative efforts and sustainable strategies, there is hope for a future where clean and reliable water accessibility will be easier, fostering health, prosperity and growth in the community.