Headwaters in the far north-east of Uganda are linked to the Napore–Nyangea Hills and the Morungole and Zulia mountain ranges, which are noted sources for rivers in the Karamoja region, including the Kidepo system.[11] The river runs through the Kidepo Valley area (including Kidepo Valley National Park) before crossing into South Sudan.[12] In the broader Kidepo–Narus river system, the Kidepo and Narus rivers are described as flowing roughly north and converging in Sudan (now South Sudan), ultimately draining toward the Nile system.[13]
Hydrology and seasonality
In Kidepo Valley National Park, the rivers Kidepo and Narus are described as seasonal “sand rivers” that flow briefly after heavy rains, with the Kidepo Valley and its tributaries being dry for much of the year.[14] Water persistence during dry months is reported mainly as remnant pools (especially along the Narus), which wildlife use when surface flow is absent.[15]
An external description of the river system in the Kidepo area characterises the Kidepo as an ephemeral river prone to flash flooding, draining through an arid valley environment.[16]
Kidepo Basin
A wetlands governance profile for South Sudan describes the “Kidepo Basin” as extending through Lamwo, Kitgum, and Kaabong districts and draining into the White Nile in South Sudan through the Kidepo and Narus rivers.[17] The same source notes a semi-arid setting, with seasonal wetlands reported along the Lamwo–Kitgum district border and in parts of Kaabong District in the upper reaches of the Kidepo River.[18]
The Kidepo–Narus valley system supports river-associated habitats within Kidepo Valley National Park. Uganda Wildlife Authority materials describe dry-season dependence on remaining pools and highlight contrasts between the drier Kidepo Valley and the more reliable water conditions associated with the Narus area.[19]
Within the park’s broader landscape, Borassus palms are described as a common feature along rivers including the Kidepo and Narus.[20]
Climate
Uganda Wildlife Authority information for Kidepo Valley National Park reports a semi-arid climate and provides indicative rainfall differences between the Narus valley (about 890 mm per year) and the Kidepo valley (about 635 mm per year).[21]
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