Abstract
Integration of remote sensing and geographical information systems (GIS) is crucial in groundwater resource management, particularly in regions like the Okavango Delta in Northern Botswana, characterized by erratic rainfall ranging annually and spatially from 300 to 600 millimetres. This variability, coupled with occasional droughts, poses significant risks to water resources, agriculture, and livelihoods. To tackle these challenges, this study employed remote sensing and GIS techniques to delineate groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) in the lower Okavango Delta. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was utilized to analyse eight thematic factors—geology, rainfall, slope, lineament density, soil, drainage density and land use, and land cover—and integrate them into the groundwater potential zone map. The study identified five distinct GWPZs: very poor (2.8%), poor (44.5%), moderate (45.0%), good (7.6%), and very good (0.1%), indicating varying degrees of groundwater availability and suitability for sustainable use. Integrating this potential zone map into broader water resource management plans is recommended to promote sustainable groundwater management practices. Additionally, enhancing climate resilience through cross-sectoral collaboration and stakeholder engagement is crucial. These efforts are necessary for developing integrated strategies to address water resource planning and adapt to climate change impacts, fostering sustainable development and resilience in water-stressed regions.