Potable water supply in owerri metropolis: a challenge to mdgs achievement

Abstract

This research paper examined the readiness of the Imo State Government to deliver the MDGs by 2015 through potable water supply. A total of 400 questionnaires were distributed randomly to heads of households in the residential zone, 20 at the institutional areas, 20 to traders within the commercial zone and 5 respondents at the industrial layout respectively and supported with oral interviews. The results of the analysis were related directly to the affected MDG targets to reveal that the Otamiri Water Scheme that supplies water to Owerri urban is not functioning effectively. Also, the water distribution facilities are inadequate, overused and worn-out. They generally wear a poor state as evidenced from blockages, burst and rust pipes, and often flow of contaminated water which has odour and taste as indicated by the respondents. The impact is directly felt on the eight MDGs, cutting across gender equality in educational pursuit at the primary and secondary school levels, maternal and child health, mortality reduction, productivity and environmental sustainability and global partnership in sustainability of the built environment. On this basis the paper therefore, recommends that facility replacement, manpower improvement, adequate funding should be properly addressed. Also the use of leak detectors and improved water production technologies via International-Government partnership as well as public sensitisation should be encouraged.

Keywords: Potable water supply, Poverty, MDGs, Environmental sustainability, Ecological systems