Mapping
The guiding principle for the mapping component is that organising and displaying information on maps is useful for planning and implementing water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services, particularly in engaging different stakeholders. Maps are an excellent way of making complex and diverse information easily accessible. Making maps that combine different datasets, such as rainfall, geology, water points and population density can be a good starting point for discussions between stakeholders about improving WASH services. Mapping as an approach is not dependent on access to technology: maps can be developed using sophisticated GIS, or created by hand by a community.
The mapping component cuts across all components of RiPPLE and supports activities under the three major research themes, Governance and Planning, Financing and Growth.
Mapping under RiPPLE also functions as a capacity building activity for researchers, practitioners and policy entrepreneurs to improve the design, implementation and monitoring of WASH.
Activities
Groundwater availability mapping
The mapping team has worked in Benishangul-Gumuz region to develop a map of groundwater availability during drought years. This is then overlain by a map of population density, to indicate levels of water supply and demand.
The map shows a wide variation in groundwater availability, and could be a useful resource for planners in the water sector. For example, it indicates areas where deeper drilled wells may be more appropriate than hand dug wells, or where alternative solutions such as sand dams or rainwater harvesting may be necessary to augment supply. It could also help to identify areas which might support the development of community-scale irrigation schemes.
Fluoride mapping
A map has been prepared showing concentrations of fluoride in water sources across Ethiopia. Fluoride is a naturally occurring element but at high concentrations it can cause health problems and over ten million people in Ethiopia could be at risk. The map indicates that high fluoride concentrations occur mainly in the Rift Valley, but that wells or springs only a short distance apart may have very different fluoride concentrations. It could help the siting of new wells and support further analysis of the socio-economic and nutrition factors which may also contribute to the development of fluorosis and health impacts.
Mapping Toolkit
The mapping team has prepared a toolkit based on their experience in Benishangul-Gumuz region. The toolkit highlights the value of mapping in supporting WASH, and suggests ways to develop mapping approaches to improve WASH services.
Page last updated 8 Jul 2008
Recent Uploads |
 |
| BG Mapping poster |  |
| Mapping Toolkit | |
| Mapping Infosheet | |