The sustainability of groundwater in semi-arid regions: the case of Makutupora Basin in Tanzania

Groundwater sustainability ensures groundwater development and uses to meet current and future needs without causing unacceptable environmental, economic, or social consequences. In semi-arid regions, water resources are typically limited, and water management is critical to ensure a sustainable water supply. Groundwater sustainability indexing is vital for groundwater management. The study used four indicators in six dimensions, i.e., quantitative and qualitative hydrogeology, environmental, social-economic, and political factors, to evaluate the sustainability of the aquifer in Makutupora basin, Dodoma, Tanzania. The resulting aquifer sustainability index is 0.59, with a 95% confidence interval between 0.3856 and 0.7944, showing that the aquifer is sufficiently sustainable. The hydrogeological analysis revealed that groundwater sustainability is promising, although groundwater use per capita is alarming. This study also recommends effective water management strategies, including improving water use efficiency, promoting water conservation, implementing policies to limit water withdrawals, and promoting alternative water sources such as recycled wastewater, especially for agricultural activities. HIGHLIGHTS Integral Water Source: Groundwater serves as a crucial water source for more than half of the global population, playing a pivotal role in sustaining water infrastructure, ecosystems, and society.; Sustainability Imperative: The pressing need for sustainable groundwater management arises from emerging challenges like saltwater intrusion, land subsidence, and disproportionate impacts on vulnerable communities, demanding holistic solutions.; Interdisciplinary Approach: Achieving groundwater sustainability requires the convergence of expertise in hydrology, engineering, ecology, sociology, economics, and law. This collaborative approach enhances insights into intricate groundwater interactions within complex ecosystems.; Holistic Assessment for Resilience: Comprehensive groundwater sustainability assessments, encompassing technical, environmental, social, and economic dimensions, are pivotal to mitigate adverse consequences, ensuring the resilience of ecosystems and society.; Integrated Policy Frameworks: Groundwater sustainability policies must encompass technical rigor while embracing environmental preservation, social equity, and effective governance. Such integrative policies are paramount for harmonizing water infrastructure, ecosystems, and society.