Assessing urban water supply in Uganda: a case study of Kumi municipality

Abstract

The study assessed urban water supply in Uganda: A Case study of Kumi Municipality. The study was premised on the following objectives: to identify the major causes of the frequent water shortages at Kumi Municipality, to examine socio-economic impacts associated with the water supply shortages in Kumi Municipality and to identify strategies for improving water supply in Kumi Municipality. The study adopted a descriptive study design. In this study, a total number of 369 respondents were expected but 148 respondents returned the survey instruments representing a response rate of 40%. The data was collected using questionnaires, interviews and document review and analysis was done using regression analysis. Qualitative analysis was done using content and thematic analysis. About 20% of the respondents attributed inadequate water supply to the ever-increasing population and residential buildings coming up which use massive water thus interfering with the supply meant for residents. Integrated water resources planning is emerging as a tool to develop water supplies and demand management strategies that are less vulnerable to the impacts of global warming. Boreholes should be for short term supplies except where surface water is completely unavailable. Collaboration and sharing of data on water supply by the various stakeholders and NGOs involved in water supply. There is need to improve on the planning methods of water distribution bearing in mind the population growth, the investment in industrial and commercial and institutional activities which are exerting increasing pressure on existing utilities in Kumi town. Engage in water saving campaigns such as slogan like-Every Drop Counts‖ across the community to sensitize the community members in the need to conserve the water resources. There is need for change of approach which include a wider range of stakeholders and reactivate the water boards, unsustainable management approaches and disciplines of a variety of sectors.