Ndichu, NNTela, SAKweyu, RMMakokha, MOkeyo, F2023-11-162023-11-162023Nyambura Ndichu, N., Abuyeka Tela, S., & Kweyu, R. M. (2023). Analysis Of Riparian Land Rehabilitation on Water Quality and Macro Invertebrates’ Diversity Along Nairobi River, Kenya. International Journal of Water Research, 5(4).https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4590308http://ir-library.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/27141ArticleAquatic life has been facing a lot of threat from the anthropogenic activities occurring near water bodies. This calls for rehabilitation actions to save the lives. The aim of this study is to analyze the rehabilitation actions that have taken place along Nairobi River and how the remedies have affected water quality as well as diversity of macro invertebrates. Notable rehabilitation activities have taken place at a river section called Michuki Park where garbage collection, fencing, planting of trees (vegetation), offering security among other practices have been undertaken. Comparison was done between the rehabilitated and non-rehabilitated sections of the river. The objectives of this study are: To assess the riparian cover types along Nairobi River, to analyze the relationship between riparian cover types and water quality, to determine the impact of rehabilitation on water quality and to establish the relationship between rehabilitation and diversity of macro invertebrates. The land use cover assessed were forest, shrubs, bare land and settlement (development). These land use cover types were analyzed in order to help in understanding the human activities carried out along the river. Four main sampling points were used to gather data where in each two samples were taken. The process was done both in a dry and a wet period. A total of 16 samples were analyzed. Data collected was analyzed using the satellite image analysis for the period of study. Data presentation was done in maps, tables, and graphs. The study findings revealed significant differences in water quality parameters between rehabilitated and nonrehabilitated zones during dry days (P<0.05), but no significant differences on wet days (P>0.05). The number of macro-invertebrates showed no significant difference. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed a negative relationship between macro-invertebrate diversity and nitrates and phosphate levels (r=-0.863 and -0.603, P<0.05). Although not statistically significant, negative relationships were observed between macro-invertebrate diversity and water temperature, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and turbidity. Dissolved oxygen and pH showed positive correlations with macro-invertebrate diversity. Species evenness was positively influenced by nitrate levels (r=0.360, P=0.043). Other factors such as water turbidity, phosphates, and electrical conductivity also had positive relationships with species evenness. The comparison between the rehabilitated and non-rehabilitated areas showed no significant difference in macro-invertebrate diversity (t=0.478, P=0.636), but a significant difference in species evenness (t=2.35, P=0.0255). The rehabilitated area had higher pH and dissolved oxygen levels, while the nonrehabilitated areas had higher electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and turbidity. Nitrates and phosphates were significantly higher in the non-rehabilitated area. Interview responses indicated that 25% of the participants reported benefiting from Nairobi River water despite its deteriorating quality, while 75% did not report any benefits. The diversity and abundance of macro-invertebrates were significantly influenced by key parameters. Oxygen showed a positive correlation, while phosphates and nitrates exhibited a negative correlation with macro-invertebrate diversity and abundance. The study emphasized the positive impact of rehabilitation on aquatic life, as rehabilitated areas had higher diversity. To prevent pollution, measures such as proper waste disposal and penalties for polluters should be enhanced. Further research is recommended to explore the distribution and adaptability of other species in the river, as well as identify extinct species. Public education on the detrimental effects of pollution on aquatic life is crucial. Expanding rehabilitation efforts to cover larger sections or the entire river is suggested. The study's findings raise awareness among residents living along the river about the harm caused to water biodiversity.enRiparianRehabilitationMacro InvertebratesDegradationArticle