Authors

Amos Kabo-Bah, Robert Andoh, Samuel Nii Odai and Kwabena Osei

Abstract

Rainwater Harvesting, a traditional practice in parts of Ghana many centuries ago, has received very little attention in recent times. The paper describes a collaborative research effort aimed at the adaptation and development of affordable technologies for capturing and retaining rainwater runoff including that from roof tops; and using this as a valuable source of water to supplement the water needs of households in Northern Ghana. The project also ultimately seeks to address issues of flooding and erosion caused by the lack of adequate drainage through the effective capturing, retention and controlled release of rainwater. The Project will verify the extent to which adoption of the adapted technologies could help greatly in conserving water resources in the Sahel and other semi-arid regions in developing countries and at the same time helping to alleviate poverty by improving the quality of life of women and children in these regions. The rainwater harvesting systems will be designed and implemented adopting an integrated approach utilizing expertise from a collaborating team comprising engineers, agriculturists, economists, sociologists and a practitioner of rainwater harvesting (and other water conservation technologies). It is envisaged that the systems would enable poor households in the community to supplement their water supply needs as well as engage in small scale backyard gardening; extend their cropping seasons through improved security of water resources, ultimately enhancing food security and contributing to poverty reduction.