Abstract
This paper analyses and assesses water losses in the Kribi Water Distribution Network (KWDN) in order to constructively feed the debate on the most effective ways to reduce water losses in urban water distribution networks in Sub-Saharan Africa. The analysis of water losses was conducted based on numerous indices (failure intensity index, percentage ratio of water loss, and unit water loss per capita) and indices recommended by the International Water Association (real leakage balance, non-revenue water basic, and infrastructure leakage index). The results show that the failure intensity index increased significantly from 0.15 in 2010 to 0.31 in 2017, while the water loss indices have achieved a medium performance. The unit water loss performed well in 2013, 2015, and 2017. The Non-Revenue Water Basic Index was above the threshold for well-performing at 23% between 2010 and 2017. The real leakage balance (RLB) index indicated that the KWDN performed well (RLB < 100 dm3/connection/day). Results also suggest that the Infrastructure Leakage Index (ILI) ranged from 1.70 to 2.59, which corresponds to performance category B. This range of values indicates the need for improvement to enhance profitability with better network pressure management, active leakage control, and network maintenance. However, this assessment represents only a current snapshot of the water loss situation in the KWDN and should be conducted at regular intervals to track changes in overall and local conditions.
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(Adapted from Kribi city council 2014)
(Adapted from Kribi city council 2014)
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The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, upon reasonable request.
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Mvongo, V.D., Eyene, B.F., Kamtoh, A.L.K. et al. Analysis and assessment of water losses in urban water distribution network: a case study of the Kribi water distribution network, Cameroon (Central Africa). Sustain. Water Resour. Manag. 9, 64 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40899-023-00855-w
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40899-023-00855-w