Aquifer Distribution in Lukobe Ward, Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania: Mapped Resources for Sustainable Water Access

Abstract

In response to the ongoing challenges posed by the scarcity of reliable fresh-water sources in Lukobe Ward, Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania, this study applied an integrated approach that combines geospatial and geophysical datasets to identify previously undocumented aquifers. The datasets utilized include an apparent density map generated from high-resolution GGMPlus satellite gravity data, a geological map (Quarter Degree Sheet 183), a water drainage map, and a slope map created from a digital elevation model (DEM). The analysis successfully identified four unconfined, saprolitic aquifers in the study area, designated as aquifers A, B, C, and D. These aquifers span areas of 12.2 km², 1.1 km², 1.6 km², and 7.5 km², respectively. Aquifers A and D attain maximum thicknesses of up to 360 m and 200 m, respectively. Aquifers B and C exhibit an average thickness of 280 m. Aquifers A and D are situated beneath relatively thick soil layers measuring 60 m and 95 m, respectively, whereas aquifers B and C are located beneath a thinner soil cover of 40 m. The discovery of these aquifers provides valuable insights for future groundwater exploration in the Morogoro Municipality, offering precise targets for the development of public water wells.