Factors Influencing Economic Sustainability of Water Supply Schemes in Rural Areas in Tanzania: A Case of Ngara District.

Ndyamukama, Simeon Wilson (2023) Factors Influencing Economic Sustainability of Water Supply Schemes in Rural Areas in Tanzania: A Case of Ngara District. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study examined the factors influencing the economic sustainability of water supply schemes in rural areas with reference to Ngara District Council. A cross-sectional design with a mixed approach was used which allow to collect data and analyze both quantitative and qualitative data. A sample size of 74 respondents was selected where questionnaires and in-depth interviews were used to solicit information. Data were descriptively analysed while regression analysis was carried out to find the relationship between variables. The findings revealed that technology uses such as pumping and gravity influenced water supply schemes in Ngara District as the updated technology enhanced the economical pumping of water and the use of gravity water towards economic sustainability. More so, the reliance on external support has influenced water supply schemes’ sustainability from the fact that donor funding has minimized the economic sustainability of water projects while reliance on government subsidy contributes to the non-economic sustainability of water supply schemes. Additionally, water users’ ability to pay for services influenced water supply schemes’ sustainability from the fact that the economic hardship experienced by water users resulted in water users’ inability to pay for the services where poor community and household economy facilitated water users’ inability to pay for the services rendered. It is concluded to have fairness in water user fees to prevent negative consequences associated with the lack of access to safe and sufficient water supply and sustainability. It is recommended that enhancing rural water supply schemes’ sustainability requires pooling together maintenance and financial risks at scale supported by advances in monitoring and payment technologies. Key words: Economic sustainability; Water supply schemes; Rural areas.

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