Solar Technology, a Solution for Community Water Provision in Drylands of Kenya: A Case Study of Isiolo County

Pastoralists’ access to water, for both human and animal use, is a major element of their livelihood. They experience water challenges such as quantity, high costs, long trekking distances and extended queues at water points. This is despite the continuous investment in ensuring water access is achieved for all. Other threats to water access include effects of climate change, weather extremes, pollution, and competition between resource users including mega-development projects. Therefore, any technology which would enhance water access is likely to assist in reducing economic and social burdens for pastoral communities. This therefore opens up new avenues for further research on water access through solar power for vulnerable pastoral communities. The research study sought to establish the dynamics, successes, challenges and opportunities for water access among pastoral communities in Isiolo county. This research study used purposive sampling method to identify and select participants that are proficient and well-informed with the topic of interest. Kinna Ward, Garbatulla, Isiolo South was purposively selected for this research due to the existing solar technology investments. The sample size was 20 participants including female water users, resident pastoralists, community members and key informants. Analysis of data was carried out using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that household cost implications and water storage are key dynamics in water access. Maintenance costs and increased water production projected as successes however community ownership and water infrastructure stood out as challenges. Water sector relationship and extent of solar technology stood out as opportunities that will improve water access for pastoral communities in Isiolo County. The findings therefore concluded on the following applications: collaborative engagements that consider the interests of all parties are most likely to result in ownership, sustainability and attainment of development goals. Develop water supply and distribution remote systems so that so that ASAL water supply continue to provide services that benefit pastoralists while maintaining their livelihood. Another finding is to explore the sources of water use inefficiencies to design institutions and policies to improve water use performance. More involvement of Women in Maintenance and Management means that initiatives should be geared towards improving water security and availability while directly involving women.