URBANIZATION AS A DRIVING FORCE IN SURFACE WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION: THE CASE OF KENYA

This study investigates urbanization as a driving force in surface water quality degradation in Kenya. The study is based on the collection of available historical data, supplemented by field observations. Increase in anthropogenic activities which is as a result of urbanization is a major force in changing the hydrological cycle as well as affecting the water quality. Studying the impacts of urbanization on water quality is becoming a wide-focused topic in the region. In this study, the authors attempt to link the urbanization effects such as agricultural development, car wash, industrial effluent management, waste disposal and the subsequent water resources exploitation with the change of water environments in Kenya. Increase in level of industrialization, urbanization, agricultural activities, and population growth have resulted in increased demand for water as well as in an increased flow of contaminants into water bodies. Population increase in urban centres has intensified urban activities which have a direct influence on water quality within hydrographic basins because effluents flow into waterways in many cases without passing through any treatment process. The most significant contamination routes are those related to direct and indirect emissions of treated and untreated sewage, runoff, atmospheric deposition, and pollution. The quality of surface water has become a critical issue in many countries, especially due to concern about the scarcity of water, requiring a program for monitoring the surface and groundwater to protect this resource. In general, the unplanned urban development in Kenya has significantly degraded the region?s water resources and significant actions such as upgrading the sewage waste disposal system, locating other sources of water supply, and strict water management will all be needed to resolve the problems that have arisen. The study suggests an adoption of the environmental management slogan which states ?Our surrounding, our well-being and our prolonged perfect life.?