Vulnerability of the Niayes aquifer to saline intrusion

01Background

The Niayes aquifer is threatened by saline intrusion due to abstraction and climate impacts.

Vulnerability mapping was needed to guide its management.

02Key issues

Understanding subsurface conditions was critical to the reliability and safety of decisions.

The challenge was to ground the assessment in robust field data.

03Mission objectives

• Assess aquifer vulnerability to saline intrusion
• Analyze anthropogenic impacts on salinity
• Map sensitive areas
• Define strategic salt wedge management guidelines

04Services delivered by EAU-GEF

• Hydrogeological and hydrochemical assessment
• Mapping of vulnerability to saline intrusion
• Analysis of anthropogenic and climate pressures
• Strategic management guidelines for the salt wedge

05Approach & methodology

The method combined geological surveys, geophysics and cross-interpretation to reduce subsurface uncertainties.

Results were mapped to prioritize sectors and guide decisions.

06Results & added value

Results provided a reliable geoscientific assessment, forming the basis for subsequent technical decisions.

The mission demonstrates EAU-GEF's expertise in applied geosciences.