Studies on the Role of WASH in Livelihood Security: Challenges and Opportunities the Case of Bora Woreda

Abstract

This study was conducted with a general purpose of assessing the role of water, sanitation and hygiene in livelihood security of communities with emphasis on the challenges and opportunities at Bora woreda in East Shewa zone of Oromia region. Alemtenais the capital town and is located 110 kilometers south of Addis Ababa along the main asphalt road to Awasa city. Both primary and secondary sources were used for the study. Focus Group Discussion, household surveys, observation method and key-informants interview were the instruments to collect data. Household survey was conducted in three selected kebele administrations and 100 heads of household representatives (43% women and 57% men) were interviewed. Three focus group discussions were held with water committee members, elders, health Extension workers, development agents and kebele administration officials. About 35.8% of the respondents asserted that there were some changes in the livelihoods ((increased income 21.6% and increased productivity of livestock 14.2% ) following provision of water supply interventions. Similarly, about 57.4% of the respondents’ asserted that the health of family members have been significantly improved after they had began to use improved water supply system. The findings from the discussion with FGD and key informants and personal observation were in agreement with household survey results. Furthermore, the finding from discussion with FGD, key informants, document review and observation spelled out that high fluoride in groundwater is the major concern and requires further consideration.

The study had indicated that improved water and sanitation had significant impact on the well being of the people and also the management of water supply system through involvement of community during planning, implementation and monitoring. The impact could include significant improvements in household income level and security of livelihoods. Increased school attendance of children with better child care, social and cultural benefits such as reductions in stress levels, increased status and self-esteem, better family and community relations, and increased ability to observe religious rites and customs. Involving community members in planning, monitoring and management of the projects brought new insights into long term sustainability of water supply and sanitation systems. Understanding the potential that water supply and sanitation projects can have on poor people’s lives underlines the fact that access to safe water and sanitation is a precursor to any form of sustainable development The study hasidentified areas that need further intervention and research, including institutional capacity building, maintenance and operation, strengthening of community involvement, selection of appropriate technology, water quality and rainwater harvesting