PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND SUSTAINABILITY OF WATER SOURCES IN KIGUMBA SUB COUNTY, KIRYANDONGO DISTRICT IN UGANDA

Abstract

This study presents findings on the public participation and sustainability of water sources in Kigumba Sub County, Kiryandongo District in Uganda. It was premised on the following objectives; to assess the relationship between Public participation in project planning and sustainability of water Sources in Kigumba Sub County, Kiryandongo District, to examine the relationship between Public participation in project implementation and sustainability of Water Sources in Kigumba Sub County, Kiryandongo District. And to assess the relationship between Public participation in project Monitoring and sustainability of water Sources in Kigumba Sub County, Kiryandongo District. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative approaches to collect data. In total, a sample of 94 respondents participated in the study. Data collection methods used were questionnaires, interviews and documentary review. Quantitative data coded and entered into SPSS and analysed using Pearson correlation coefficient Qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis basing on the research objectives. The study findings revealed that there is a significant positive relationship between public participation in planning and sustainability, participation in implementation and sustainability, and a positive significant relationship between participation in project monitoring and sustainability of water sources. The study recommends that public members should be involved in drafting work plans to follow while carrying out water sources’ activities. This will promote community involvement and participation which will enhance ownership and sustainability of water projects. The study further recommends that the project team should be accountable to public members on project activities. In addition, the study recommends that public members participate in local budget monitoring for water sources to ensure that financial resources are put to proper and intended use.