ASSESSING THE SUSTAINABILITY OF RURAL WATER SUPPLY MANAGEMENT IN THE CASE OF DEBARK WEREDA, AMHARA REGION, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Management and sustainability of rural water supply is a big challenge, in water delivery service. The main objective of this study was for assessing sustainability and management of rural water supply systems in Debark Wereda Amhara region, Ethiopia. Nine sample Kebeles were chosen by cluster sampling. Survey was carried out (n=191) users and artisans (caretakers) to fill the questionnaire in fifteen purposely selected water points constructed in the last few years. Both Primary and secondary data were employed. The collected data were scored; standardized, analyzed and interpreted using project approach and performance frameworks within NUMXL1.6 software and STATA 12. Sample water points were ranked depending on the index and its values mapped with Arc GIS 10.2. Demand driven approach, users participation, committee training, choice of technology were factors which affects pre and post project implementation which results poor management and sustainability of sample projects. From the analysis 54% which was not satisfactory and good enough. 18% of sample water points categorized as ineffectiveness or non-functional and not long-lasting to deliver the anticipated service because of poor project approach and performance frameworks. From the result 23.4% of sample projects fall under effective and sustainable water points with little modification. Community managed projects have greater Effectiveness and Sustainability index results than non-community managed projects this implies Community managed projects well performed than non-community managed projects. Finally, the recommended design of spring water scheme was design by using auto cad software.