Impact of improved water supply on livelihood and health: Emphasis on Doba and Nayagnia, Ghana

Abstract

Water supports livelihoods through consumption, agricultural and industrial activities, sanitation and environmental services. The impact of water supply on health has been widely accepted, though these impacts are poorly documented. This study assessed the impacts of improved water supply on rural livelihoods in two communities (Doba and Nayagnia) in the Upper East Region, Ghana. Using structured questionnaires and statistical assessments, the positive impacts of improved water supply on health, hygiene, time-saving, productivity, food supply and nutrition, school performance and reduced stress on people especially women and expenditure on health were identified. A strong significant relationship (P = 0.001) between household income and the availability of improved water. Though there was a significant relationship between water tariff and access to potable water (P = 0.010), household income and water consumption were uncorrelated. Occupation and income, and availability of improved water were respectively significant. Income and availability of water also presented a significant value (P = 0.004). The study showed a progressive decline in water-related diseases after the provision and increasing access to improved water. Appropriate operational and maintenance schemes should be emphasized to ensure the proper sustainability of water supply systems to promote livelihoods in both communities. Training elected community members and making the necessary equipment available to facilitate regular maintenance and repairs were determined as the way forward to also ensure these positive impacts on livelihoods.