Part 3: Rethinking Water Management in Kenya

In Kenya, the start of the rainy season often brings not just relief but chaos. A few drops can transform our urban roads into rivers, making them impassable. Fast forward a few months, and we find ourselves grappling with drought, desperately searching for water. Isn’t it ironic that we oscillate between such extremes?

It’s evident that we need to rethink our water management strategies. Why not harness rainwater during these downpours to sustain us during dry spells?

Learning from Copenhagen

Take inspiration from Copenhagen. In 2011, a heavy rainstorm led to extensive flooding in the city, causing widespread damage and exposing vulnerabilities in its urban drainage system. Following this incident, the city committed to becoming floodproof. They invested heavily in a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) and implemented innovative water collection solutions. As a result, they not only reduced flooding but also created a reliable source of water for dry periods.

These sustainable drainage systems include the construction of underground water tanks, the creation of rainbeds in residential areas, and the use of permeable asphalt to prevent water from pooling on surfaces. Currently, several tunnels are being constructed under the city, including a 1.3-kilometre-long tunnel that will link Copenhagen's inland lakes to the harbor, set to open in 2026.

Actionable Strategies for Africa

So, what can we learn and implement in Africa?

1. Underground Water Tanks: For new construction, we should prioritize installing underground tanks designed to collect and store rainwater. I recently visited a university with a substantial tank that captures a significant amount of water. This infrastructure could be a game-changer, providing a crucial resource during the dry season. This solution is also viable for homes.
2. Changing Perceptions: Water has long been misperceived as a "cheap commodity," especially by those who have already sunk boreholes. However, we are becoming a water-scarce country. Even for borehole users, it’s essential to ensure groundwater recharge for a sustainable future.
3. Sustainable Urban Planning and Climate-Proofing Infrastructure: Urban planners and engineers need to design drainage systems that manage stormwater effectively while facilitating water collection for future use. Additionally, we must focus on climate-proofing our infrastructure to withstand the increasing variability of weather patterns. A holistic approach to urban design can mitigate flooding risks and enhance our resilience to climate variability.
4. Community Engagement and Education: It’s vital to involve local communities in water management initiatives. By fostering awareness and encouraging participation, we can ensure that these systems are sustainable and that everyone understands their role in conservation.
5. Policy and Investment: Finally, we need robust policies that promote investment in water management infrastructure. Governments and stakeholders must prioritize funding for sustainable practices that will benefit our cities and communities in the long term.

It can be argued that we lack the capital to invest in such systems. However, incorporating these ideas from the design stage can reduce the need for later financial allocation. Additionally, funds set aside for disaster management could be saved if we mitigate disasters in the first place.

Rainy seasons do not need to be nightmares. We have a unique opportunity to transform our challenges into proactive solutions. Let’s rethink and implement innovative water management strategies that will help build more resilient cities.

Do you think we are doing enough on water management?