Causes and Consequences of Kenya’s Water Crisis

1. Causes and Consequences of
Kenya’s Water Crisis
By: Darcy Bergen

2. Causes and Consequences of Kenya’s Water Crisis
As president of his own financial group, Darcy Bergen dispenses estate planning and risk
management advice. Darcy Bergen has also supported the charitable work performed by his
parents, Eloise and John, the founders of the Christian organization Bergen’s Mission. Through
their nonprofit, the Bergens have addressed aspects of Kenya’s water crisis, including building
wells to provide clean water to orphanages.

3. Causes and Consequences of Kenya’s Water Crisis
More than 40 percent of Kenya’s population lacks access to reliable sources of clean water. Due to
its geography and arid climate, Kenya’s freshwater supply doesn’t reach many parts of the country.
Further, privatized water distribution prioritizes the wealthy, leaving those living in overcrowded
slums without water delivery. The government also lacks the funds to develop and maintain
adequate water infrastructure.

4. Causes and Consequences of Kenya’s Water Crisis
People in underdeveloped or rural areas must walk for miles to collect water. However, these
sources are vulnerable to water-borne diseases such as cholera. Nongovernmental organizations
and international charitable groups such as Bergen’s Mission have expanded access to clean
water by financing and overseeing infrastructure development projects and distributing water
filtration devices.