ASALs at the Crossroads: Water & Sanitation, Climate Change, and Conflict Meru University of Science and Technology, through the Sanitation Research Institute (SRI), is proud to present the documentary on Water & Sanitation, Climate Change, and Conflict in ASALs: A case of Merti. This documentary is the result of a dynamic partnership between SRI, Sign of Hope, the German Toilet Organization, and the Merti Integrated Development Program. It shines a light on one of Kenya’s most pressing challenges, how communities in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) are navigating the complex intersection of water scarcity, climate change, sanitation breakdown, and conflict over natural resources. Once a thriving sub-county headquarters sustained by the steady flow of the Ewaso Nyiro River, Merti now finds itself at a turning point. The river that once nourished livelihoods has become seasonal, and boreholes drilled to meet community needs have either collapsed, been submerged, or fallen into disrepair. Of twelve strategic boreholes, only a handful remain functional, fueling competition and tension over scarce water resources. The film captures in vivid detail how climate extremes, from recurring droughts to flash floods, are reshaping daily life. Families lose their livelihoods, youth face growing despair, and women are forced into unsafe bushes to manage basic sanitation needs. Menstrual hygiene management is a living challenge. The spread of Mathenge (Prosopis juliflora), an invasive species once introduced to fight deforestation, adds another layer of complexity by consuming water, displacing native vegetation, and creating unsafe thickets where wild animals hide. Yet, Merti at the Crossroads is not just a story of crisis; it is equally a story of resilience and innovation. The documentary showcases community-driven solutions such as gabions and protective walls built to safeguard boreholes, the adoption of solar-powered water pumping systems, and the piloting of improved sanitation models that promise dignity and safety. These local actions, though small in scale, highlight the determination of Merti’s residents to adapt and build a better future. By bringing these realities to the screen, the documentary challenges us to reflect on the urgent need for research-driven policies, inclusive interventions, and stronger partnerships to ensure sustainable WASH services in the face of climate change. It is both a moving human story and a rallying call for governments, researchers, practitioners, and development partners to act decisively. Water & Sanitation. Climate Change. Conflict. The future of ASALs- depends on how we respond today!