Abstract:
This research focused on evaluating the sustainability of rural water supply scheme in
Menz Mama, Ethiopia, using a mixed methods approach. The data were gathered
through household surveys, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and field
observations. Two-stage sampling thecniques wsed to select the Menz Mama Wereda,
the Emegwa Kebele, and 109 sample households involved in managing the water supply
scheme. The evaluation of the RWSS sustainability utilized nine indicators encompassing
economic, social, and environmental aspects of the SDGs, reflecting local conditions.
Descriptive statistics, including frequency, mean, minimum, maximum, and percentage,
were employed for data summarization. The findings revealed 'moderate' levels for the
environmental, economic, and social sustainability indices. Community involvement was
'Moderate' during the planning phase, 'High' during implementation phase, and 'Low'
during monitoring and evaluation phase. Overall, both the sustainability of the RWSS
and the level of community participation were evaluated as 'Moderate'. The study
emphasizes the necessity of integrated support to address identified challenges and
promote sustainable development in RWSS
