Water Supply as an Index for Assessing Sustainable Rural Development in Imo State

Abstract

This study explores water supply as an index for assessing rural development in Imo State. The objective of the study is to investigate the sources of water supply, distances travelled in search of water, Household rating of water supply, amount spent on water and the contribution of water supply to the development of rural communities in Imo State. Primary data were generated using structured questionnaire, oral interview and field observations while secondary data were obtained from published and unpublished documents. The data were analyzed using percentages, person’s product, moment correlation co-efficient and student-t-test model. The results show that there is a statistically significant relationship between water supply and development among the LGAs studied. Also, the pipe-borne water found in a few sampled communities is grossly inadequate. Finally, private boreholes and hand pumps remain the most common sources of water for residents. This study recommends for immediate proactive interventions through planning, funding, implementation and monitoring of rural water supply by the government and donor agencies for effective actualization of clean, safe water and sanitation agenda of the sustainable development goal. Also, community efforts should be intensified in rural areas in the provision of safe, accessible, and secure water supply.