In a major step toward tackling water scarcity in East Africa, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has announced an $8 million initiative aimed at improving groundwater management in Tanzania and Kenya. The project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented in partnership with the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), combines advanced scientific research with community-driven conservation efforts to enhance water access and sustainability in the region.

The initiative comes at a crucial time as climate change and increasing demand put immense pressure on water resources. With Mount Kilimanjaro’s glaciers—an essential water source for over two million people—melting at an alarming rate, the project places significant focus on protecting the mountain’s 400-acre forest ecosystem. This effort is critical for preserving biodiversity and ensuring long-term water availability.

At the core of the project is a comprehensive plan to map and manage aquifer systems, which are vital for groundwater storage and supply. The first phase will expand scientific research to improve understanding of regional hydrology, aiming to provide drinking water access to an additional 100,000 people and improve groundwater storage for 615,000 individuals who face seasonal shortages.

“The protection of Mount Kilimanjaro’s ecosystems is not just an environmental imperative but a humanitarian one,” said UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay. “This initiative represents a vital step toward ensuring water security for millions of people who depend on this iconic mountain for their survival.”

Tanzania and Kenya’s governments have welcomed the initiative, emphasizing its alignment with their national development strategies and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation. Tanzanian Water Minister Jumaa Aweso praised the project’s collaborative approach, citing ongoing water conservation successes in the Rombo and Hai districts as examples of effective partnerships.

“The partnership between Tanzania and UNESCO has already delivered positive results, and this $8 million international groundwater project is another major step forward,” Aweso stated. “We appreciate the support in ensuring sustainable water access for our communities.”

By focusing on sustainable groundwater management, the initiative aims to strengthen resilience against climate challenges and ensure reliable year-round water sources. The conservation of Mount Kilimanjaro’s forests and glaciers remains a top priority, as these ecosystems play a crucial role in regulating regional water flow and maintaining hydrological stability.

 

Article by Jed Mwangi

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https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/kilimanjaro-unesco-invests-8-million-protect-water-resources