National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS)
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PRINT ISSN : 2319-7692
Online ISSN : 2319-7706 Issues : 12 per year Publisher : Excellent Publishers Email : editorijcmas@gmail.com submit@ijcmas.com Editor-in-chief: Dr.M.Prakash Index Copernicus ICV 2018: 95.39 NAAS RATING 2020: 5.38 |
Since sand dams are often constructed to rely on the natural dynamics of seasonal rivers, improper approaches to their provision frequently lead to failure. When correctly planned, designed and constructed, they serve their purposes of providing water for people, livelihoods and the ecosystem. Importantly, sand dams mitigate drought and flood effects in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs). When poorly done, the structures become ineffective and even cause further environmental degradation. This paper presents findings from a study carried out on 24 sand dams in the semi-arid area of Kyatune-Ikanga Ward of Kitui County, Kenya, to establish the infrastructures contribution to droughts and floods management. A structured questionnaire was used to solicit information from 66 users of the sand dams and 12 water extension services personnel. Descriptive statistics were applied to the accrued data. The study found that sand dams are not explicitly planned, constructed, and utilized as a primary solution to manage droughts and floods but for people and their livelihood water supply. However, when built they contribute to bringing about controls on the two weather whims threats albeit derisorily due to inadequacies arising out of shortages in their planning, designing, construction, and operation and maintenance. As such the study recommends an integrated and collaborative approach to sand dams development cycle that is beneficiary community driven, and conforms to sustainability ideals.
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