- INTRODUCTION
Water is a basic human necessity, essential for health, agriculture, sanitation, and economic productivity. Despite the South West Region of Cameroon receiving significant rainfall annually, water scarcity remains a pressing issue in many of its rural communities.
Tombel Sub-Division in Kupe Muanenguba Division presents a paradox: it is surrounded by rivers and streams yet lacks sufficient access to safe and reliable water. This report investigates the nature, causes, and impacts of the water crisis in Tombel, proposing solutions for sustainable water management.
- BACKGROUND OF TOMBEL SUB-DIVISION
Tombel Sub-Division is located in the South West Region of Cameroon, predominantly agrarian and known for cocoa and plantain farming. It comprises dispersed villages with difficult terrain, making the provision of water infrastructure logistically challenging.
The area is also affected by the Anglophone conflict, which further complicates development efforts.
- CAUSES OF THE WATER CRISIS
- Inadequate Infrastructure:
Outdated or non-functional water supply systems.
Absence of modern boreholes and limited distribution networks.
- Environmental Degradation:
Deforestation and soil erosion affecting catchment areas.
Pollution from human and agricultural waste.
- Rapid Population Growth:
Increased demand due to urbanization and displacement from conflict areas.
- Poor Governance:
Corruption and mismanagement of water projects.
Lack of community participation in planning and maintenance.
- Armed Conflict and Insecurity:
Inaccessibility of some regions due to violence.
Abandonment of planned infrastructure development projects.
- EFFECTS OF THE WATER CRISIS
- Health Impacts:
Outbreaks of water-borne diseases such as cholera and typhoid.
- Economic Consequences:
Time lost in water collection affects productivity and education.
Water scarcity limits agricultural activities.
- Social and Gender Impacts:
Women and children bear the brunt of water collection duties.
Increased social inequality and conflict over water access.
- COMMUNITY RESPONSES AND COPING STRATEGIES
Local initiatives to protect and manage springs.
Rainwater harvesting in schools and churches.
Water rationing and storing practices.
- RECOMMENDATIONS AND SOLUTIONS
Short-Term Interventions:
Immediate repair and maintenance of existing water points.
Distribution of water purification tablets.
Long-Term Strategies:
Develop a master water supply plan tailored for Tombel.
- Construct sustainable infrastructure such as solar-powered boreholes.
- Strengthen environmental protection efforts.
- Governance and Policy Reforms:
- Increase transparency in project implementation.
-Engage local communities in planning and monitoring.
-Incorporate Tombel’s needs into regional development frameworks.
- CONCLUSION
The water crisis in Tombel Sub-Division highlights critical developmental gaps that must be addressed urgently. Despite natural water availability, systemic issues have left communities vulnerable. Solving this crisis requires integrated and community-led approaches, backed by strong governance and sustained investment. Water is not just a need but a right and a cornerstone of Tombel’s socio-economic progress.
