The Sahel region uses more groundwater than is replenished. Water distribution varies dramatically between countries. For instance, Nigeria enjoys abundant water resources, while others, such as Burkina Faso, face water scarcity. More than 40% of the water supply in Mali and Chad and 90% in Mauritania and Niger comes from beyond their national borders, highlighting the heavy reliance on transboundary water river systems. This dependence calls for an integrated approach to regional water resource management, especially as the region deals with rising water stress driven by climate change, demographic growth, and the expansion of agriculture. Projections suggest a decline in water availability per capita by 2080, putting additional pressure on the region and calling for enhanced water management on a regional level.

Given that climate change will likely increase precipitation, at least in the mid-Sahel, causing rains to increase in intensity and variability. This raises the need for collaboration on water use, particularly on water storage and water retention in the soil. The Sahel shows potential for an enhanced way to harvest water from rainfall, which can be used for irrigation. The region, therefore, needs an adapted reservoir and collection system that notably considers the high rate of evapotranspiration and lessens the loss of water when stored.