Marsabit moves to strengthen groundwater resilience
Stakeholders in Marsabit County have reviewed a draft management plan aimed at protecting and sustainably managing the Logologo–Shuur Aquifer, a vital groundwater resource serving communities in the arid region.
The review, held on September 8, 2026, marked an important step towards strengthening groundwater resilience and ensuring the resource remains available to support communities and livelihoods in the future.
Although the aquifer is currently considered to be in a satisfactory condition, stakeholders have raised concerns over emerging threats that could undermine its long-term sustainability. These include climate variability, declining groundwater recharge areas, increasing water abstraction, pollution and the growing number of unregulated boreholes.
The draft Aquifer Management Plan (AMP) outlines several interventions designed to address these challenges and improve the management of the groundwater resource.
Among the proposed measures is the protection of groundwater conservation areas to safeguard key recharge zones. The plan also promotes Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR), an approach aimed at enhancing the replenishment of groundwater reserves.
Stakeholders further recommended stronger monitoring and regulation of groundwater abstraction, as well as improved preparedness for drought and other climate-related risks. The rehabilitation of catchments and groundwater recharge zones is also identified as a key priority.
The plan seeks to promote sustainable livelihoods that can help reduce pressure on groundwater resources while strengthening the resilience of local communities.
Implementation of the proposed measures will require collaboration among the Water Resources Authority (WRA), the Marsabit County Government, Water Resources Users Associations (WRUAs) and local communities.
Stakeholders emphasized that translating the management plan into practical action will be critical to protecting the aquifer, supporting livelihoods and improving water security across Marsabit County. The initiative is expected to provide a framework for coordinated groundwater management while helping communities prepare for increasing climate and water-related challenges
