Africa’s vast underground water resources are under pressure from climate change

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🗞️ Driving the news: A recent World Bank report examines the challenges of groundwater management, highlighting threats from factors like climate change
• Groundwater stored in aquifers is critical for many regions, especially Africa, where it supports almost 100% of household and agricultural activities in rural areas

🔭 The context: Groundwater serves as a significant resource globally, providing almost 50% of all domestic use and 43% for agriculture
• Its importance is underscored in Africa, where it’s a shield against the harsh realities of a changing climate

🌎 Why does it matter for the planet: With the world grappling with climate change, groundwater, being protected from evaporation when underground, offers a potential buffer against increasing water scarcity and is crucial for food security and everyday living, especially in Africa's rural areas

⏭️ What's next: The World Bank report underscores key challenges in groundwater management: establishing ownership, ensuring aquifer recharge, maintaining proper monitoring, and crafting effective policies, particularly in areas lacking robust monitoring networks

💬 One quote: "It’s imperative that governments better monitor our water resources. Coupled with good practical solutions, such as managing pump rates, this will sustain groundwater resources for many years to come." (Laura Hood, Politics Editor at The Conversation)

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