As a water resource management expert, I've spent considerable time studying the consumption patterns of water across different regions of the world, including Africa. The question of how much water a person uses in a day in Africa is complex and multifaceted, as it can vary greatly depending on the region, economic status, access to water infrastructure, and cultural practices.

In Africa, the disparity in water usage is quite significant. Some regions are water-scarce, and the average household water use might be as low as 10 to 20 liters per person per day, which is primarily for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene. This is due to the limited availability of water sources and the necessity to conserve water for survival. On the other hand, in urban areas or regions with better water infrastructure, the usage can be much higher, approaching or even exceeding the global average.

The figure you mentioned, 47 liters per person, is a rough average and likely represents a mix of these scenarios. However, it's important to note that this average can be misleading. In some African countries, particularly those in the Sahel region or the Horn of Africa, water scarcity is a critical issue, and the actual usage might be far less than this average due to the lack of access to clean water.

In contrast, countries with more abundant water resources, such as those in Central and Southern Africa, might have higher water usage rates. Additionally, the urban-rural divide plays a significant role in water consumption. Urban dwellers typically have more access to water and use more than their rural counterparts, who often rely on traditional water sources and have to use water more sparingly.

Furthermore, the use of water in Africa is not only for domestic purposes but also for agriculture, which is a crucial sector for many economies. The water used for irrigation can significantly affect the overall water consumption figures.

It's also essential to consider the impact of climate change on water availability. Droughts and unpredictable rainfall patterns can lead to reduced water availability, which in turn affects daily water usage.

In conclusion, while the average household water use in Africa might be around 47 liters per person per day, this figure is highly variable and influenced by numerous factors. It's crucial to approach this topic with an understanding of the diversity and complexity of water usage across the continent.

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In Africa, household water use averages 47 litres per person. In Asia, the average is 95 litres. In the United Kingdom the average is 334 litres per person per day and in the United States the average is 578 litres per person per day.read more >>