Water scarcity mitigation strategies and implementation challenges among the populace of Batagarawa Local Government Area of Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

Scarcity of water poses serious risk to the health and livelihoods of people living in the arid and semi-arid parts of northern Nigeria. This is due to mostly climate change, poor water infrastructure, improper water management and growing populations that keep putting pressure on the limited sources of water in the areas. The objective of this study was to assess the strategies adopted in solving the problem of water scarcity in Batagarawa LGA, Katsina State, as well as to assess challenges associated with the adoption of the strategies. In this study, qualitative research methodology was utilized in the data collection process where Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and direct observation were mainly adopted. The primary data were collected using FGD and direct observation on the field to ensure a more holistic data collection. The secondary data were collected from Katsina State Water Board and from NGOs working among the people of Batagarawa. The data collected was analyzed through the use of thematic analysis technique. According to results from the interviews conducted, it emerged that borehole water is the main source of water supply to the people. Access to water differs based on whether an individual's home possesses a borehole, the proximity of one’s home to a communal borehole, and availability of pipe-borne water which in some cases may be hindered by shortage of power. People adopt personal measures in handling the situation such as water conservation and reusing water; however, financial difficulties and lengthy distances make it hard for such measures to be sustained effectively. The study conclude that households make use of several localized measures aimed at coping with water problems, including water storage, rainwater collection, and reuse of water. It was recommended that the governments should support households with financial or technical help in obtaining their own boreholes and installation of water storage systems.