30 March 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – faces a looming water crisis, according to a new study presented this week at a UN conference in the city. The research, conducted by Fekadu Moreda and Tirusew Assefa, sounds the alarm on the city’s unsustainable reliance on groundwater, urging immediate action to avert disaster.
The report highlights a critical imbalance between water supply and demand. Addis Ababa currently consumes a staggering 1.2 million cubic meters of water daily, while the available supply stands at a meager 40%. This heavy dependence on groundwater extraction has resulted in the drying up of wells, raising concerns about the future quality of the city’s water source.
The study further exposes the issue of unregulated water use. With the Addis Ababa Water and Sewerage Authority (AAWSA) rationing water for the past six years, many residents are forced to rely on private vendors who charge exorbitant prices. This situation not only exacerbates the water shortage but also creates a significant social and economic burden.
The experts propose a comprehensive solution to address this multifaceted crisis. They advocate for:
Shifting focus to surface water sources: The city needs to prioritize utilizing rivers and lakes for its water supply. Additionally, constructing reservoirs to capture and store rainwater would be a crucial step towards water sustainability.
Implementing stricter regulations: Unchecked drilling and water extraction must be brought under control through effective regulations. This would ensure a more balanced and sustainable utilization of the city’s water resources.
Expediting water supply projects: The long-delayed water supply projects, such as Gerbi, Sibilu, and Aleltu, need to be completed as soon as possible. These projects are crucial for increasing the city’s water supply capacity and alleviating the current strain.
The situation in Addis Ababa demands immediate and decisive action. With water demand projected to rise further and existing projects lagging behind schedule, a comprehensive strategy is essential to secure a sustainable water supply for the city’s residents. Failure to address this challenge could lead to a devastating water crisis in the near future.
