Assessment of non-revenue water in the urban water distribution system network in Cameroon (Central Africa)

Abstract

This paper aims to assess non-revenue water (NRW) in the urban water distribution system in Cameroon. The methodological approach used in this study was based on online searches using the databases such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, and the International Water Association. These online searches have been completed through field observations and interviews with institutional and non-institutional stakeholders in the urban water sector. Results indicate that the total volume of NRW in the urban area of Cameroon was 100.26 million m3/year, which represents 52.5% of the total system input volume. About 2 million people could be supplied by cutting Cameroon's NRW to half the present level. Findings also suggest that the water utility (Camwater) practices passive leakage control, meaning that Camwater repairs only those leaks that are visible. Reducing NRW can be achieved through leakage detection and pipe replacement, pressure management, water metering, and a program to identify, remove, and replace illegal connections. HIGHLIGHTS This study shows that the annual volume of non-revenue water (NRW) is estimated at 274,679.2 m3/day, or 100.26 million m3/year, which represents about 52.5% of the annual system input volume.; About 4 million people (14% of the population) could be supplied with the present level of NRW.;

Keywords

• apparent losses
• cameroon
• non-revenue water
• real losses
• water loss