Application of the Kilimanjaro Concept in Reversing Seawater Intrusion and Securing Water Supply in Zanzibar, Tanzania
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Date
2021-07-30
Authors
Pembe-Ali, Zuleikha
Mwamila, Tulinave
Lufingo, Mesia
Gwenzi, Willis
Marwa, Janeth
Rwiza, Mwemezi
Lugodisha, Innocent
Qi, Qinwen
Noubactep, Chicgoua
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
MDPI
Abstract
There is escalating salinity levels on small islands due to uncontrolled groundwater extraction. Conventionally, this challenge is addressed by adopting optimal groundwater pumping
strategies. Currently, on Unguja Island (Zanzibar), urban freshwater is supplied by desalination,
which is expensive and energy-intensive. Hence, desalinization cannot be afforded by rural communities. This study demonstrates that the innovative Kilimanjaro Concept (KC), based on rainwater
harvesting (RWH) can remediate seawater intrusion in Unguja, while enabling a universal safe drinking water supply. The reasoning is rooted in the water balance of the whole island. It is shown that if
rainwater is systematically harvested, quantitatively stored, and partly infiltrated, seawater intrusion
will be reversed, and a universal safe drinking water supply will be secured. Water treatment with
affordable technologies (e.g., filtration and adsorption) is suggested. The universality of KC and its
suitability for small islands is demonstrated. Future research should focus on pilot testing of this
concept on Unguja Island and other island nations.
Sustainable Development Goals
This research article published by MDPI, 2021
Keywords
Rainwater harvesting, Seawater intrusion, Sustainable development, Zero-valent iron, Water quality