Chapter 7 - Groundwater irrigation and implication in the Nile river basin

Abstract

Water scarcity and groundwater depletion are serious problems across many nations. Such water problems are often considered local and managed so. However, many water scarcity problems cut across nations because they share transboundary water sources. Such basins require international cooperation to alleviate water scarcity and create opportunity. In this chapter, we describe the transboundary water of the Nile river basin. The historical focus of the Nile riparian countries has been primarily on surface water; however, we include the dimension of groundwater. We identify aquifers with potential for irrigation development and limited downstream externalities. A better understanding of the spatial and temporal variability of both surface water and groundwater reveals opportunities for groundwater irrigation that can enhance food security, water security, and regional economic growth. This chapter is important because it raises the possibility of increasing the water available for irrigated agriculture through coordinated management of the regional hydrologic system.