Toward Sustainable Groundwater Management: A Comprehensive Framework for Resource Protection and Utilization

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis paper presents a comprehensive framework for the sustainable management of groundwater resources in the Makutupora basin, Dodoma, Tanzania. The framework was developed through a systematic four‐phase methodology. Phase I involved a literature and document review to generate foundational insights. Phase II comprised a review of existing conceptual frameworks to identify best practices. Phase III included primary data collection through interviews, focus groups, and stakeholder surveys to understand current challenges and capacities. Phase IV involved synthesizing the findings to develop the proposed management framework. The framework includes a nested, multi‐scale structure with four hierarchical levels, overarching goals, primary management functions, specific operations, and subordinate tasks. It was informed by sustainability Principles and Intergrated Water Resources Mangagement concepts. The framework facilitates coordinated planning and implementation across relevant organizations through well‐defined roles and regular monitoring/evaluation. Key functions address resource assessment, regulatory compliance, stakeholder participation, financing, and capacity development. Validation by subject matter experts strengthened the framework's grounding in evidence and enhanced its implementation, adaptability, and long‐term sustainability. The final framework is envisioned as a dynamic decision support tool to address the complexities of groundwater utilization, protection, and conservation in an equitable, adaptive manner for current and future generations.