Discover Botswana: The Land of Groundwater Wonders

Groundwater is the lifeblood of Botswana, accounting for approximately 80% of the country's total water supply. The majority of the population relies on groundwater for drinking, cooking, and sanitation, as well as for agricultural and industrial purposes. Botswana's groundwater resources are derived from two main sources: rainfall and surface water infiltration. Rainfall is the primary source of groundwater recharge, and the country's average annual rainfall of 500 mm (20 inches) provides a significant amount of water for groundwater storage. Surface water infiltration also contributes to groundwater recharge, particularly in areas where rivers and streams flow through permeable rock formations. The distribution of groundwater resources is uneven, with the majority located in the eastern and southern regions. The Kalahari Desert, in the west and center, has limited resources due to its arid climate.