Abstract
Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) are essential for human development. The lack of WASH facilities affects the livelihoods and the health of communities. Assessing the state, availability, and accessibility of WASH systems is vital for identifying gaps and formulating proactive solutions. This study assessed drinking water and sanitation access in the Central Gonja District and Mtubatuba Municipal areas using qualitative methods and in-depth participant interviews. Findings revealed persistent challenges of inadequate, unaffordable, and inaccessible water and subpar sanitation services negatively impacting community well-being and health. Issues like corruption, favouritism, and social networks influenced the distribution of water and sanitation systems. Infrastructure limitations, bureaucratic obstacles, and officials' ineptitude posed barriers to service delivery, exacerbated by rural-urban population shifts. A public-private partnership between Novubu and Mtubatuba municipality enabled water treatment, showcasing a potential model for sustainable water provision and a possible replication for Central Gonja District. The study advocates for transparent governance, community-centric solutions, and inclusive strategies to address chronic challenges, emphasizing the importance of proactive leadership and maintenance to prevent environmental degradation and health risks. The local governance systems should ensure the distribution and maintenance of water and sanitation systems while emphasizing the need for inclusive, community-driven approaches for lasting improvements.
Keywords: Water, Sanitation, Health, Central Gonja District, Mtubatuba Municipality, South Africa, Ghana
Submitted to Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development | This publication was made possible (in part) by a grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The statements made and views expressed are solely the responsibility of the authors. The authors gratefully acknowledge support from the Future Africa Research Leader Fellowship (FAR-LeaF) Programme at the University of Pretoria.
