Hydrological Impacts of Land Use Changes on Water Resources Management and Socio-Economic Development of the Upper Ewaso Ng'iro River Basin in Kenya

Population pressure and depletion of natural resources are forcing land use changes that are intended to improve agricultural productivity. Farmers from high potential highlands are migrating into semi-arid lowlands in search of land and livelihoods. The semi-arid areas were primarily used for ranching and wildlife. Settlement of smallholder farmers has led to land sub-division and intensification of agriculture. Uncontrolled abstraction of irrigation water from rivers that serve downstream users has also aggravated the situation. Therefore, the recent land use changes have led to conflict over water and land resources. The book presents the hydrological impacts of rainwater harvesting and management systems,…

• US
  United States Agency for International Development