This research presents an evidence-based approach to identify how best to support development of groundwater for small- scale irrigation in sub-Saharan Africa. They authors conducted a multimethod groundwater recharge assessment, utilising formal and community-based monitoring, field investigation and existing published data in the north-west highlands of Ethiopia.
Published Article
Understanding empowerment in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH): a scoping review
Empowerment is a complex and multi-dimensional concept, and it is often not clear how it is defined in WASH sector programming. This scoping review explores how concepts of empowerment have been used in the WASH sector and delineates relevant empowerment dimensions.
Enhancing livelihoods of the urban poor through productive uses of utility-supplied water services – Evidence from Kampala, Uganda
This paper reports on a study conducted in Kampala, Uganda, which adapted the existing rural-based Multiple Use water Services (MUS) framework into a slum-specific framework. MUS is a livelihood-centred approach that is implemented in rural areas of over twenty countries, where water supply primarily designed for domestic or irrigation purposes is also used for productive uses to improve householders’ livelihoods.
Including water quality monitoring in rural water services: why safe water requires challenging the quantity versus quality dichotomy
This study uses dilemma analysis, drawing on an institutional experiment engaging 76 stakeholders to identify and characterise the multiple dilemmas faced in including water quality monitoring in rural water services.
Dimensions of water insecurity in pastoralist households in Kenya
Pastoralist communities in Northern Kenya face increasing water security risks attributable to disruptions in their socio-ecological environments. This study provides empirical evidence on factors behind water security and identifies factors that enhance resilience for vulnerable pastoralist communities in Samburu County.
Impact of Lake Beseka on the Water Quality of Awash River, Ethiopia
Using 480 water samples collected between 2008 and 2017, this research seeks to better understand the discharge of Lake Beseka and its impact downstream on the water quality of Ethiopia’s Awash River.
Machine learning to evaluate impacts of flood protection in Bangladesh, 1983–2014
The research in this article published in MDPI Water uses machine-learning approaches to study the long-term impacts of flood protection in Bangladesh. Specifically, it tests whether the embankment has affected the welfare of people over time, benefiting those living inside more than those living outside.
River toxicity assessment using molecular biosensors: Heavy metal contamination in the Turag-Balu-Buriganga river systems, Dhaka, Bangladesh
This study used technology based on luminescent molecular biosensors to assess the toxicity in the rivers around Dhaka in Bangladesh, namely the Turag, Tongi, Balu and Buriganga.
Rethinking the economics of rural water in Africa
Rural Africa lags behind global progress to provide safe drinking water to everyone. This paper explores why rural water is different for communities, schools, and healthcare facilities across characteristics of scale, institutions, demand, and finance.
Hybrid water rights systems for pro-poor water governance in Africa
This study, based in Kenya, Malawi, South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe, explores the implications of permit systems for both the most vulnerable and the state, and, identifies options for pro-poor water legislation that also meet the water governance requirements of the state.
