Linking Groundwater Protection and Wastewater Reuse in West Omdurman, Sudan: A Framework for Urban Water Resources Management

Mustafa Ahmed, Ali Mohamed Alouba, Khalid Mustafa Kheiralla

Abstract: West Omdurman, a rapidly growing part of Khartoum State, relies heavily on groundwater from the upper Nubian aquifer for domestic and agricultural supply. At the same time, most wastewater is generated and disposed of via on-site sanitation systems, with only a small fraction reaching centralised treatment plants. This situation leads to two interrelated challenges: increasing pressure on groundwater resources and progressive deterioration of groundwater quality. The study examines groundwater vulnerability and wastewater management in West Omdurman, Sudan, where increasing demand and inadequate sanitation threaten the Nubian aquifer. Drawing from hydrochemical, microbiological, and geophysical data, the research outlines an integrated water resources framework that links aquifer protection with advanced wastewater reuse. By proposing a phased, zone-based implementation strategy for wastewater treatment, the study suggests that reclaimed water could reduce irrigation pressure on groundwater, improve water quality, and foster sustainable urban water use. The findings underscore the importance of coordinated planning and investment in sanitation infrastructure. The analysis suggests that introducing properly designed wastewater treatment and reuse in West Omdurman could reduce groundwater abstraction for irrigation, lower contaminant loads reaching the aquifer and contribute to more balanced use of surface water, groundwater and reclaimed water. The paper proposes a phased strategy that starts with priority zones and averages existing municipal and environmental management institutions in Khartoum State.

Keywords: groundwater contamination, wastewater reuse, Nubian aquifer, urban water management, West Omdurman

How to Cite?: Mustafa Ahmed, Ali Mohamed Alouba, Khalid Mustafa Kheiralla, "Linking Groundwater Protection and Wastewater Reuse in West Omdurman, Sudan: A Framework for Urban Water Resources Management", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 201-206, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251201052720, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251201052720