Evaluation of rural water supply schemes sustainability in Enarj Enawuga district (Ethiopia)

This study evaluated the sustainability of rural water supply schemes in Enarj Enawga District, Ethiopia, focusing on factors influencing long-term functionality. A mixed-methods approach was used, including household surveys, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and field observations across 50 water schemes and 200 households. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS and binary logistic regression. Results showed that only 62% of the schemes were functional, with 38% non-functional due to technical failures, lack of trained caretakers, and spare part shortages.

Most respondents (85.5%) reported inadequate local technical capacity, and 82.5% were unwilling to pay for water services. Water consumption ranged between 4–8 liters per capita per day significantly below the national target of 25 liters. Key determinants of sustainability included technical, financial, institutional, social, and environmental factors, all statistically significant. Findings emphasize the need for better support to local water committees, fair spare part pricing, and improved community engagement. Rehabilitation of existing schemes and investment in new ones are critical to meeting basic water service standards and achieving long-term sustainability in rural water delivery systems.