Resilience of Urban Water Supply Systems to Climate Change in Cameroonian Cities

Resilience of Urban Water Supply Systems to Climate Change in Cameroonian Cities

Climate change and rapid urbanization have increased pressure on fragile water supply systems in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite reliable rainfall that recharges surface and groundwater systems, urban water crisis has escalated in Cameroonian cities. Drawing insights from the city of Bamenda, the water supply system has proven resilient, despite lapses in water governance. There has been diversification of water supply system to supplement the main water distribution company (CAMWATER) through community water systems and individual efforts, such as drilling of private wells and boreholes. Despite these efforts, water scarcity has remained the order of the day. It is recommended that watersheds and wetlands be protected through Nature-based Solutions and Ecosystem-based Adaptations to ensure sustainability.

Keywords: adaptation, scarcity, water security, vulnerability