Assessment of Water Demand and Allocation Strategies in Kasese District, Uganda Using Geographic Information System (GIS).

Abstract

Water scarcity remains a significant global issue, particularly affecting developing areas such as Kasese District in Uganda, where it is intensified by inadequate infrastructure, weak water governance, and rising population pressures. Evaluating water demand and distribution is essential for understanding how water is allocated across sectors and regions, thereby guiding sustainable resource management. This research investigates the strategies for water demand and allocation in Kasese, with particular attention to the underlying causes of scarcity and its effects on households, agriculture, and industry. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were used to visualize the spatial distribution of water sources and examine access levels in different sub-counties. Primary data were gathered from 400 participants through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS and Excel. Supplementary data were used to map the availability and distribution of water sources across the district. The results show that the main contributors to water scarcity in Kasese include population expansion, changing climate conditions, and insufficient infrastructure. Households are the most affected, often traveling long distances for water, which increases exposure to waterborne diseases. In the industrial sector, inadequate water supply restricts production and raises costs, while in agriculture, limited irrigation contributes to lower crop yields. Although Kasese has several water sources, distribution remains uneven, leading to accessibility challenges in certain areas. GIS analysis reveals notable disparities, particularly in remote sub-counties. To mitigate these issues, the study suggests expanding local water infrastructure, promoting awareness, and educating communities about water conservation. Emphasizing rainwater harvesting as a climate-resilient approach, especially for households and industries, is also recommended. Furthermore, policy adjustments should support demand- side management and implement smart metering systems. Improving these strategies would enhance equitable water distribution and foster sustainable water resource management in the Kasese district and Uganda as a whole.