DMI is supporting the Arid Lands Resource Management Project (ALRMP) office in Garissa to test the use of Groasis® water boxes for reforestation of rangelands in Shanta-Abak, about 160kms from Garissa town. The water box is a ‘water incubator’ that produces and captures water from the air through condensation and rain. 

Groasis® water boxes make it possible to plant trees under harsh drought conditions and could, therefore, be very relevant for promotion of reforestation in Kenya’s dry-lands. The pilot is important effort towards turning the tide of desertification and land degradation in Northern Kenya.

Some of the relevant features of Groasis® water boxes are:

• Produce artificial condensationCollect rain water
• Distribute water to the plant in small quantitiesStimulate the rise of capillary water
• Prevent evaporation of capillary waterPrevent erosion of the soil around the plant
• Prevent grazing by small rodents such as hares or rabbits
• Prevent the surface of the soil around the plant from getting too hotStimulate a steady temperature at the roots