COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AND SUSTAINABLE WATER SUPPLY: AN ASSESSMENT OF SMALL TOWN WATER SYSTEM IN SOUTH TONGU DISTRICT, GHANA

Abstract

The study is base on community participation and sustainable water supply: An assessment of small town water system in South Tongu District. In Ghana's small town water management, community participation is considered as one of the options in facilitating sustainable water service delivery in the rural areas. The study was guided by empowerment theory. The study used a descriptive research design. Data was collected using structured questionnaire, in-depth interviews, participant observation and focus group discussion. The study relied on purposive and simple random sampling. Simple random sampling was used to draw a sample of 40 respondents from Hikpo and 46 from Agbakope. The data gathered was presented using frequencies and percentages. The study revealed that community members were less involved in community participation in small town water management at both Hikpo and Agbakope. The low level of community participation in these communities has led to limited extension of standpipes. And since they do not play an active role in community water management, this could adversely affect the sustainability of community water projects and limit access to water supply. It is relevant to note that women are the main stakeholders in water issues and any decision about this resource largely affect women. Therefore, women's involvement in water project activities and capacity building are essential to sustaining water projects. Empowerment and sensitization for community members to have a sense of ownership of water projects would go a long way to promote sustainable water supply and water systems.