Flowing underground: Stories from Mount Elgon
The project specifically aims to enhance the understanding of groundwater resources by conducting detailed mapping and assessment of selected aquifer systems. Additionally, it will develop technical and policy-oriented guidelines to promote the sustainable exploration and utilization of groundwater, including its conjunctive use with surface water.
Mount Elgon is one of Kenya's main water towers. It is located north of Lake Victoria along the Nile Basin and reaches an altitude of 4,321 meters above sea level. The mountain forms the upper catchment area for two major rivers, Nzola and Turkwel, providing water to the Malakisi River.
Unfortunately, with increased deforestation, areas surrounding Mount Elgon have been experiencing rising temperatures and decreased rainfall, posing a significant threat to groundwater availability and, in turn, to socioeconomic activities in the Western Kenya region.
To learn more, read the booklet "Flowing Underground: Stories from Mount Elgon" which features stories from the Mount Elgon aquifer shared between Kenya and Uganda, providing the reader with a glimpse of the role of groundwater in this shared aquifer:
