By Rebecca Timson and Bert Abbott

Regional Background For centuries, competition for water access in the Niger River Basin has interfered with protection of water quality. Protection of water quality requires transboundary cooperation. Lacking such cooperation, diseases like guinea worm go uncontrolled.

Early use of the river

Empire and control of the river

Focus on trade

Modern control of the river

Competition for water Here, a farmer prepares land beside the Niger for planting. Here, cattle run through a part of the riverbed.

Pollution of the water

Impact of climate change

Transboundary cooperation The Niger Basin Authority aims to: Support transboundary development projects Improve environmental protection in the basin But participating countries are not bound by decisions of the NBA, so it has little power.

Local cooperation Here, you see a team of relief workers on the flooded river. Here, a woman assists with a riverbank reforestation project.

The Carter Center works to eradicate guinea worms in the region

Guinea Worm as a Disease AKA Dracunculiasis, “Affliction with little dragons” European explorers saw it on the Guinea coast in the 17 th century

How Infection Spreads Infection by drinking water with water fleas carrying larvae Incubation takes 1 year Often exits through leg/foot Causes painful burning -> soak blister in water Sore is susceptible to infection

Recontamination of Water

Disease Prevention Stop Entry into Body Use clean water sources Make new water sources Treat old ones with larvicides Filter or boil drinking water

Disease Prevention Stop contamination of water sources Community participation Control removal of worm from body Keep ALL feet/legs away from water

In 1986, there were 3.5 million cases of guinea worm disease in 21 African and Asian countries. In 2011, there were only 1,058 cases in four African countries: Mali, South Sudan, Ethiopia & Chad