How many of the African countries shown in Figure 14 had a high risk of water insecurity in 2019? Shade one circle only - AQA - GCSE Geography - Question 5 - 2023 - Paper 2

To calculate the percentage of countries at high risk of water insecurity, use the formula:

Substituting the known values:

The countries with a very low risk of water insecurity are predominantly located in northern and southern Africa. Most of these countries have stable water sources and effective management practices, contributing to their low-risk status. The distribution seems uneven, indicating that some regions may need more attention to improve their water security.

Water insecurity refers to the lack of reliable access to sufficient quantities of safe water for consumption, sanitation, and livelihoods. It can arise from a variety of factors including drought, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure.

Limited infrastructure can severely restrict water supply by hindering the transportation, storage, and distribution of water. Poor infrastructure may lead to leaks and contamination, making it difficult for communities to access clean water, which can exacerbate issues of water scarcity.

Desalination can significantly increase water supply, especially in arid regions, by converting seawater into potable water. However, it is energy-intensive and costly. Other strategies include rainwater harvesting, improving water use efficiency, and recycling wastewater, which can complement desalination efforts by providing sustainable and less energy-intensive alternatives.