The impacts of increasing water scarcity and the potential for water-related conflict in Lamu, Kenya

Increasing water scarcity in Lamu, Kenya, is poised to escalate water-related conflict due to intersecting socioeconomic, political, environmental, and cultural factors. A study identifies religion, migration, and poverty as key amplifiers of such tensions, particularly with ongoing infrastructural development and climate change exacerbating the crisis. The research recommends integrating these factors into water management strategies to preempt conflicts and guide negotiations over scarce resources. By anticipating stressors, the findings suggest a proactive approach could mitigate potential disputes in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Maingey, Y., Opondo, M., Olago, D., & Ouma, G. (2021). The impacts of increasing water scarcity and the potential for water-related conflict in Lamu, Kenya. Water Supply, 22(2), 1983–1994. https://doi.org/10.2166/ws.2021.299