Drivers of Lake Chad Shrinkage and Its Implications for Food Security in Borno State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Despite its strategic importance for food security and regional stability, the Lake Chad region (LCR) has become a perilous environment due to natural and anthropogenic factors. Its wetlands have diminished by 70%, while the population relying on this ecosystem has surged from 3.5 million in 1960 to over 45 million in 2020. This drastic reduction has led to severe food insecurity, making the LCR a hotspot for extreme humanitarian crises. Therefore, this study examines the factors responsible for the shrinking of Lake Chad. To achieve this, the paper uses Human Security Theory as a theoretical framework and employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the shrinking Lake Chad region. The findings reveal that the basin's reduction is driven by several interrelated factors. Increased water usage for irrigation and domestic purposes demands vast amounts of water for crop cultivation, diverting it from the lake. Additionally, domestic water usage has surged due to population growth. Climate change has emerged as a critical factor, leading to decreased rainfall and altered precipitation patterns. These climatic changes have resulted in reduced inflow of water into the lake, thereby diminishing its size. The impact of climate change is compounded by rising temperatures, which increase evaporation rates and further decrease the lake's water volume. It is recommended that mitigating the impact of Lake Chad’s shrinkage on livelihoods in Borno necessitates a holistic approach, incorporating sustainable water management, the promotion of alternative livelihoods, and regional cooperation. Sustainable water management practices, such as modern irrigation techniques and wetland restoration, are crucial for efficient water use. Promoting diversified agricultural practices and eco-friendly projects can reduce dependency on the lake's resources and enhance community resilience. Fostering regional cooperation among countries sharing the Lake Chad Basin is vital for comprehensive water resource management and environmental conservation, ultimately promoting sustainable development in the region.