Effect of water scarcity on households’ livelihoods in Iwoye-Ketu Area of Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Water is an essential commodity which affects life and livelihoods in the universe. This study examined perceived effect of water scarcity on livelihoods in Iwoye-Ketu, Ogun State. Random sampling was used to select 80 rural households and water samples for the study. Data collected were analysed using descriptive, inferential and laboratory analyses. Findings showed that the mean age of respondents was 38 years with an average household size of four persons. The major sources of water were boreholes (97.5%) and rainwater (90.0%), the average trekking time to the water source was 24 minutes and the households requires an average of 162 litres of water per day. Water analysis’ result showed that the water has pH (6.87), total dissolved solids (0.175 mg∙dm−3), temperature (29.9°C) and turbidity (0.6 FTU). The major causes of water scarcity include insufficient rainfall (97.5%), increased sunlight intensity (97.5%), pollution of water sources (95.0%) and increased population (93.8%). About 60% of them perceived water scarcity to have a negative effect on their livelihoods. Correlation analysis shows that there is a significant relationship between usage of water (r = 0.370, p < 0.01) and perceived effect of water scarcity. It was concluded that water available for household use is not sufficient, although it is safe but contain some elements which are not of World Health Organization standard for good potable water. It is recommended that the community should build a hub for water collection and distribution close to the village centre and the government should provide water infrastructures to increase the supply of potable water.

The Effect of Water Shortage on Households Well-being in Kigali City: A Case Study of Kicukiro District (2019-2022)

“…Moreover, both studies emphasize the adverse effects of water scarcity on livelihoods and household well-being. Adetayo et al (2019) found that approximately 60% of respondents perceived water scarcity to have a negative impact on their livelihoods, while the current study illustrates respondents' concerns over the impacts of water scarcity on economic stability, health satisfaction, and overall quality of life. Rhue et al (2023) explored the effects of household water insecurity on child health and well-being, extending the scope beyond microbiological pathogens to encompass various health impacts.…”

“…The study of Adetayo et al (2019) investigated the effect of water scarcity on households' livelihoods in a rural area of Nigeria. Their findings highlighted similar concerns regarding water scarcity, including insufficient rainfall, pollution of water sources, and increased population pressure.…”

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“…In addition to being a vital environmental component for all living things, water also plays a significant part in the economic and social progress of the human population [15]. Water accessibility and availability are inextricably linked to socio-economic development, which encompasses advancement in the economy, well-being of people, and quality of life [16].…”

“…Consequently, the surface water's ability to provide rural areas with water is reduces when rainfall decreases and, eventually, surface water levels drop. This increases water scarcity and causes water insecurity in the communities [15]. The change in climatic condition, to some extend may have a significant impact on surface water availability, the increased temperature leads to an increase of evapotranspiration [15].…”

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