The Influence Of Precambrian Metamorphic Rocks On Groundwater In The Chyulu Area, Kenya

Abstract

The Chyulu Area is characterized by an extensive contact between the Precambrian metamorphic rocks and the overlying volcanic rocks. The area underlain by metamorphic rocks is characterized by lowlands with an average altitude of between 400–900m above mean sea level (amsl) and the area underlain by volcanic rocks forms the Chyulu Hills with an altitude of between 1200m and 2000m amsl. The area is bounded by latitudes 2°5’ and 3°5’ south and longitudes 37°20’ and 38°35’ east. The geology of the area has been critically examined to evaluate its impact on groundwater. Springs at the contact zone are located at specific points that could have either geological or paleogeographic control. The chemical quality of the groundwater varies with rock type. This indicates that the metamorphic and volcanic rock aquifers are not interconnected. Although the groundwater is important for present and future tourism and agricultural development of the area, its quantity has not been satisfactorily assessed. There is an urgent need to quantify the groundwater resource of the area in order to ensure its optimum development and utilization.