Perception of Women in Water Supply and Associated Health Risks in the Use of Harvested Stored Rainwater in Enugu State, Nigeria

Angela Oyilieze  Akanwa; Ngozi  Joe-Ikechebelu; Fredrick Aideniosa  Omoruyi; Chukwuebuka Nelson  Alumuna

Angela Oyilieze Akanwa Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Uli Campus, Anambra State
Ngozi Joe-Ikechebelu University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Fredrick Aideniosa Omoruyi Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State
Chukwuebuka Nelson Alumuna Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Uli Campus, Anambra State

Keywords: Community, Enugu-Ezike, Harvested Rain Water, Health Risks, Water Scarcity/Quality, Women

Abstract

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has become a necessity in many Nigerian communities due to water scarcity, particularly during the dry season. This study examines the perception of women in water supply and associated health risks in the use of harvested stored rainwater in Enugu-Ezike, Enugu State. Field observation, random in-depth interviews etc., are inclusive in the qualitative methods employed in the study. Laboratory analysis of physicochemical and bacteriological parameters of stored RWH samples (hand dug well and drinking vessels) were also carried out. Findings show that rural, poor and deprived women suffered consistent water stress and shortage in dry seasons and this accounts for 84% of them being dependent on stored rainwater harvesting. Findings show that RWH stored water is unfit for drinking and has health risks with high possibilities; it causes cholera and typhoid repeatedly in children. The study also shows other ramifications of water scarcity in the case study area, including the gendered burden of fetching water and the health implications of this.