Conserving , developing and protecting forest resources in Kenya for humanity
World Water Day 2017
Freshwater Challenges for Improved Health and Sustainable Development in Kenya
By Benedict Omondi Aloo
As Kenya gears up to celebrate this year ’ s World Water Day on 22nd March , 2017 under the Theme : Fresh water and Wastewater , we should focus our attention on the importance of freshwater and advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources . There is need to for us to reaffirm our commitment to improve the quality , management and protection of water resources as part of our historic campaign to achieve a life of dignity for all people . This is the opportunity for Kenyans to learn more about the theme of World Water Day and how safe management of wastewater as an efficient investment in the health of humans and ecosystems .
At Kenya Forest Service , were are mandated to increase forest cover to a minimum of 10 % by conserving , growing trees and sustainably managing our forest and allied resources that include water for the benefit of the present and future generation . Forests play a critical role in water catchment for each country . In Kenya , the key forest ecosystems namely Mt . Kenya , Aberdare Range , Mau Forest Complex , Mt . Elgon , and Cherangani Hills form the upper catchments of all the main rivers in Kenya .
The fresh water that drains out of the water towers is susceptible to pollution by untreatedor partially treated urban and industrial wastewater from major urban areas like Nairobi , Kisumu , Nakuru and Mombasa . This wastewater has adverse effect to both the people and acquatic life . It should also be noted that loss of our forest cover contributes to depletion of available freshwater capable of self-cleansing the rivers that receive these wastewater . We are witnessing this state of affair in the country because we lack a management system for water resources including institutions , legislations , and awareness among the people .
There is need therefore for water service providers to provide adequate sanitation facilities for safe disposal of the wastewater after undergoing full treatment . The institutions charged with responsibility of monitorng and managing the water quanitiy and quality namely WRMA and NEMA should carry out regular monitoring of lakes and rivers at designated points to ensure compliance with set standards to avoid serious damage to our river courses .
Chania river from the Aberdares
If any environmental issue is observed , detailed field survey and inspection should be timely and properly implemented by the authorities in charge in the water sector . If any serious environmental impact is expected or observed , WRMA should report to the responsible agencies such as the National Environmental Management Authorities ( NEMA ) and the Ministry of Water and Irrigation immediately . In response to the report , necessary actions should be taken by the responsible agencies to avoid or minimise the damage to the environment .
About the Author :
Benedict Omondi Aloo is the Head of Watershed at the Kenya Forest Service
Conserving , developing and protecting forest resources in Kenya for humanity
18 Africa Water , Sanitation & Hygiene • March - April 2017