African Urban Development Studies (Interdisciplinary - | 11 November 2001
Mitigating Water Scarcity Conflict in the Nile Basin: An Action Research Study in Nigeria
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Abstract
Water scarcity is a critical issue in the Nile Basin of Africa, particularly affecting countries such as Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Nigeria, bordering the Nile's headwaters, faces unique challenges related to water resource management and distribution. An action research approach was employed, integrating stakeholder consultations, hydrological data analysis, and participatory workshops. Data collection included interviews with local communities, government officials, and traditional leaders. Surveys revealed a significant disparity in access to clean water among rural versus urban areas (80% vs. 50%), highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve equity. The research underscores the importance of integrating community needs into water resource management plans and proposes a collaborative governance framework as a viable solution to address current challenges. Recommendations include developing community-led water management projects, implementing gender-sensitive policies, and fostering intergovernmental cooperation for sustainable water use in the Nile Basin region.