Examining the Role of NGOs in Community Water and Sanitation Improvement

Abstract

This chapter examined the role of NGOs in water and sanitation improvement and the effects on the residence of Tunayilli in the Sagnarigu District. The design was descriptive. Questionnaires and interview guides were administered to household heads and key informants. Findings revealed that the water and sanitation condition in Tunayilli is generally poor. NGOs play diverse roles including the provision of water and sanitation facilities, community mobilization, and facility maintenance to ensure their sustained usability. However, inadequate funding, weak community mobilization, poor maintenance culture, and low education are challenges to water and sanitation improvement programmes of NGOs in the community. Measures to mitigate these includes increased central government funding, public education, community involvement, enforcement of sanitation by-laws, and regular maintenance of water and sanitation systems in the community. Stakeholders should intensify and sustain their educational campaigns. Meanwhile, by-laws on water and sanitation should be enforced and offenders prosecuted.