Impacts of Water users participation on the outcomes of rural water development projects in Elgeyo -Marakwet County, Kenya

Abstract

Concern for public participation in development projects is not new. Local institutions participation in development projects in Kenya has gained prominence lately especially with regard to project completion and sustainability. Many development projects in third world countries often fail due to exclusion of local groups participation. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of water users participation on the outcomes of rural water development projects in Elgeyo -Marakwet county with particular reference to Keiyo North sub-county. The specific objectives of the study were: to examine the characteristics of local groups which participate in water development projects, to assess the levels and impacts of local groups’ participation on water development projects and to analyze the challenges faced by local groups in the implementation of water development projects. Arnstein’s ‘Ladder of Citizen Participation’ model and the group theory by Kurt Lewin guided the study. A survey research design was used in this study because it provided accurate analysis of the characteristics of a sample. The target population of the study comprised of 46 registered water groups in Keiyo North sub-county, from which a sample of 50% was drawn using stratified sampling technique. A total of 142 respondents and 7 key informants were selected for the study using random and purposive sampling methods, respectively. Data was obtained using questionnaires, focused group discussions, interview schedules and observation. Secondary data was sought from journals, reports, publications, development plans and Acts of Parliament. Quantitative data was analyzed using Ms Excel and presented in descriptive statistics, tables, graphs and discussions while qualitative data was analyzed thematically and presented by discussions. The study findings show that group characteristics largely influence the level of water users participation in water projects. Water users participation in water projects had positive impacts on cost,completion of projects, ownership and sustainability of water projects. Technical and socio-economic challenges affect the intensity of group participation in water development projects. The study concludes that effective coordination and consultation between water users and other stakeholders enhances faster project implementation. The study further concludes that water users participation in water projects implementation improves project sustainability especially in rural areas. The study contributes to knowledge on group dynamics and water resource development by demonstrating that organized community groups in collaboration with stakeholders are capable of developing water resources to improve their own wellbeing. The study recommends the need for improvement of technical abilities of community members to effectively undertake water projects in addition to facilitation by CDF.