ACCESS TO PORTABLE WATER IN RURAL SWAZILAND: A CASE OF MASHOBENI SOUTH

Abstract

Accessibility to safe drinking water is one of the most effective ways for improving the health status of a community. However, water scarcity around the world still remains a problem despite the Millennium Development Goals efforts. A study was undertaken at Mashobeni South, in Swaziland to investigate accessibility to portable water. Major communal water points and homesteads were identified through a reconnaissance survey. Face-to-face interviews were then conducted using an interview schedule. Water sources at Mashobeni South were ‘unimproved’; rivers/streams, and unprotected wells. The return time and distance to water source were also outside the basic recommended values. The average consumption per capita per day was 13.1 litres, which is slightly above two thirds of the UN minimum requirement. About 72% of the water was used for personal hygiene, with about 22% used for cooking and another 6% used for drinking. The area has a lot of natural water sources but the water has to be brought next to the users. Treatment before use, especially for drinking has to be considered.