Sustainable Development Goal number six is one of the 17 UN goals adopted in 2015 to end global poverty by 2030. This goal focuses on ensuring universal access to water and sanitation for all. Additionally, goal number 16, which promotes peace, justice, and stability, aligns closely with goal six, as many conflicts worldwide arise from the lack of water.
For years, pastoralists and farmers in Njoro Masaini, Taveta Sub County, Taita Taveta County, have competed for water resources.
Furthermore, camel herders from outside the region have clashed with local farmers and herders while seeking water for their camels, raising disputes over this vital commodity.
Despite these challenges, pastoralists and farmers share stories of hope, envisioning a future marked by peace, security, and cooperation.
“It’s true we don’t have enough water. During the dry season, we fight over the little water available,” noted Temuka Mepokori, a pastoralist from Masaini in Taveta Sub county.
Mambi Keturai, another pastoralist from Njoro Masaini, explained, “During the dry season, the water in this river is scarce. Livestock needs water, and so do the farmers. We have to compete for it. If you wake up late, you may not get any. The cows fight for water, and so do the farmers.”
Similarly, the local farmers are not exempt from these conflicts, as their crops rely on the same water that livestock needs.
During times of conflict, the local elders crafted and coordinated strategies to resolve disputes, restoring peace, security, and harmony among farmers and pastoralists.
Brighton Mghona, an environmentalist and water expert from Geoprobe Limited, Taita Taveta, emphasized the importance of protecting the environment and water resources to prevent conflicts between communities and maintain long-term peace.
“If we protect the environment like forests and land cover, we can prevent issues like flooding, which affects people. These rights, such as the Right to Water, are enshrined in Kenya’s constitution, specifically in Article 42, which was revised in 2016. This includes the protection of water resources and water catchment areas,” explained Mghona.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) member states are collaborating to advance water security by exploring ways to manage shared water resources more effectively.
This includes increasing water options and using modern science to enhance the efficiency of surface and groundwater usage.
These efforts aim to reduce water scarcity and promote regional integration and peace, preventing conflicts over water resources.
Commander Abebe Muluneh, Director of IGAD’s Security Sector Program and IGAD’s Head of Mission to Ethiopia, pointed out that water plays a significant role in fostering peace and good relations, particularly among pastoralist communities.
“Pastoralist communities and farmers, especially in the IGAD region, need water for livestock and crops. We must develop sustainable strategies to ensure equitable access to water across IGAD areas to end conflicts and maintain long-term peace,” said Commander Abebe.
He added that there is a strong link between water security and climate change in the IGAD region. The solidarity and cooperation of IGAD member states, he said, is key to adapting to changing conditions and ensuring access to water to maintain peace and good relations for years to come.
“There is a connection between climate change and security. Climate change not only causes water scarcity but also results in flooding, as seen recently in parts of Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. IGAD member states must work together to develop rivers and enhance afforestation efforts to mitigate these unprecedented challenges,” Abebe noted.
The United Nations (UN) reports that global water consumption has risen by 9%, leading to severe water shortages affecting more than 2.4 billion people.
The UN emphasizes that achieving SDG goal number six which advocates for access to clean water for all and goal 16 which advocates for peace and security,requires increased investment, stronger communities through technological systems, and cooperation among all stakeholders. Proper water management methods are essential.
According to the 2023 UNESCO report, cooperation on water resources has already led to positive outcomes, with water cooperation strengthening peace and security in various regions.
Evidently, water plays a crucial role in both peace and conflict, particularly as it becomes increasingly scarce due to population growth, overuse, mismanagement, and climate change.
Now, farmers and pastoralists in Njoro Masaini believe that peace, security, and cooperation can be sustained if governments and stakeholders work together to develop strong, sustainable strategies based on SDG goal six that champions for access to clean water and SDG goal 16, which champions peace and security.
