EVALUATING THE SUSTAINABILITY OF RURAL WATER SUPPLY SCHEMES: IN CASE OF EMEGWA KEBELE, MENZ MAMA WOREDA, ETHIOPIA

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