Potential for water buffering - 3R approach in North Kenya

This publication by Acacia Water shows how the selection of 3R interventions in the programme area can be approached in an innovative way based on the characteristics of the natural landscape. The 'Recharging, Retaining and Re-using water' (3R) approach aims to increase the amount of useful water by storing water when it is plentiful and to make it available for the dry periods – and also to extend the chain of uses. 3R interventions use buffers like shallow aquifers, the soil profile, open water or tanks to store water. The ultimate aim is to create secure water buffers, which can fulfil the water demand for different uses in the area. This translates into an increased resilience during drought periods, higher productivity and increased access to drinking water. The described methodology for 3R intervention selection is developed and applied for the first time to the Kenya Arid lands area.