An expert in the field of water management, Mr Getnet Kebece Demeke, has said that leveraging technology will enable efficient and sustainable management of water resources, which are essential for agriculture, industry and ecosystems.
Demeke stated this while featuring as guest speaker during the annual Gbola Tokun memorial world water day lecture, put together by the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Ibadan branch.
Speaking on the topic, ‘Technology For Peace in Water Resource Development,’ Demeke, who is a Chief Resident Engineer, Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP), said advanced technologies provide tools for real-time monitoring, data analysis and decision-making, empowering stakeholders to address water challenges effectively.
He stated further that “Continued research, investment and cooperation in this field are imperative to unlock the full potential of technology for peace in water resource development. Further innovation and adaptation of technologies, alongside capacity building and knowledge sharing are needed to address evolving water challenges and conflict dynamics.”
While proffering solutions to water scarcity, the keynote speaker, Mr Oluwaseun Adeyemo, listed water-saving technologies and behavioural decisions as some of the solutions.
He stated that examples of water-saving technologies are high efficiency clothes washers and low-flow showers and toilets while noting that water-conserving behaviours include turning off the water tap while brushing teeth, taking shorter showers, showers instead of baths and fixing leaky faucets among others.
Speaking with the Nigerian Tribune, chairman, NSE, Ibadan branch, Mr Ibraheem Folarin Bello, said, “Today, we gather not only to celebrate the essence of water but also to reflect on its profound significance in fostering peace, a theme especially touching this year as we honour the memory of the late Adegbola Tokun, a past chairman of NSE Ibadan branch between 1979 and 1980.
“Water, the source of life, knows no boundaries or borders. It flows freely, nourishing communities and sustaining ecosystems, transcending differences and uniting humanity in a common bond. Yet, despite its universal importance, access to clean water remains a privilege for many, causing disparities and conflicts around the globe.”
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