Problems With Drinking Water Supplies in Kenya Essay example

Water is a bare necessity both for the survival of an individual and a nation. Freshwater scarcity has become a global concern as the projected worldwide demand on water exceeds supplies. Less developed countries in particular are currently suffering from severe water shortages and water contamination. #8230;half the population of our civilized world suffers today with water services inferior to those of the ancient Greeks and Romans#8230;In many developing countries, cholera, dysentery, and other water related diseases are on the upswing. (Gleick,1999) Kenya, Africa is one such case. Kenyas population is approximately 105,000, with a high infant mortality rate and an average life expectancy of 58. Average water conditions†¦show more content†¦Most crops are harvested in poor soil and produce low yields, providing inadequate nutrition and food supplies. Poverty and poor education contribute to the problem. Farmers are in very disadvantageous economic conditions to impr ove their land or equipment. The people of Kenya prove to have very little education on hygiene, bacteria, or water born viruses. Government inefficiency is contributing to the problem. Although the Kenyan legislature has instituted the National Irrigation Board, the agency is weak and fails to effectively enforce regulations on consumption and pollution. It is estimated that 80% of current water abstractions have no permits and inspectors rarely monitor those that do. Also, Kenya is not a member of any convention that deals with waters shared across national boundaries. However, government efforts are currently being made to improve the situation in Kenya. The Lake Naivasha Riparian Owners Association is working on an environmental management plan. Steps have been taken to promote more advanced agricultural techniques such as intercropping and soil and water conservation. Proper uses of agrochemicals are being encouraged along with development of organic farms, which are less environmentally threatening. Outside agencies such as PLAN International are making huge progressive developments in Kenya. PLAN is working with issues of water shortages, poverty, and poor health by assisting communities financially andShow MoreRelatedComparing Different Ways of Supplying Water to Kenya1516 Words   |  7 Pagesdifferent ways to supply water in this region. At the end of the report, make a recommendation of the best method of water provision. 1. Introduction Water is one of the vital substances on earth and according to Kreger (2004)â€Å"Actually, only 1% of the worlds water is usable to us. About 97% is salty seawater, and 2% is frozen in glaciers and polar ice caps. Thus that 1% of the worlds water supply is a precious commodity necessary for our survival.† All humans on earth need water to survive. 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