Standardised Precipitation Valuation of Water Resources Vulnerability to Climate Variability on the Bui Plateau, Northwest Cameroon

Abstract

Sensitivity of water resources to hydro-climatic variations is a key constraint to development. Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) was employed to assess vulnerability of water resources to climate variability by computing mean annual rainfall for five stations with the least record of 20 years. SPI values in Bui range from -0.1 to -0.45. These extreme conditions have led to severe water shortages. Water output was collected from Kumbo Water Authority and Camerounais Des Eaux (Jakiri). Population perceptions on changing water levels and reliability were captured through 200 questionnaires administered across six hydrological basins. Results revealed that springs, streams, pipe-borne water, wells/boreholes have reduced significantly. Respondents also perceived that rainfall has become unreliable because of inconsistent onset of first rains and cessation of the wet season. This calls for enhancement of existing water resources and protection of watersheds to ensure sustainability.