Technical Challenges Facing Water Users in Accessing Water Services from the Public Water Supply Authority in Dodoma City, Tanzania

Abstract

Water service is essential for human survival. For it to be easily accessed with adequate amount in an increasing population, there are number of challenges that need to be addressed with existing expertise, protocols and operations.  Thus, this study aimed to examine the Technical Challenges Facing Water Users on Accessing Water Service from the Public Water Supply Authority in Dodoma City namely Dodoma Urban Water and Sanitation Authority (DUWASA). The study employed a mixed research approach where a cross sectional research design was used to collect data at one time from July to August 2021. A sample size of the study was 96 respondents drawn from three wards in Dodoma City who are clients of DUWASA, 3 local government leaders and 5 officials from DUWASA. A Multi-stage random sampling was chosen to collect data accurately represents the technical water-related challenges faced by water users. Three wards were selected to represents Dodoma City residents, two streets were then selected from each of the three wards. Sixteen households were randomly selected from one street in each ward, resulting in a total of 32 households per ward. The study used purposive technique in selection of 5 key informants who are the DUWASA officials, one local ward leaders from each of the selected wards. Both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques were employed in the study. Using descriptive statistical analysis, the findings revealed that, limited number of days and number of hours, limited water resources, poor infrastructures which leads to the loss of water through water leakage as technical challenges hindering accessibility of water services. The study recommends for construction of modernized water networks and efforts to increase more sources of water that will lead to exploit more water.