Factors affecting performance of water users' association in the management of rural water scheme at Kasiya Lilongwe, Malawi

Abstract

Rural water supply systems in Malawi operate under the Water Users’ Association model to improve the performance. However, the gradual deterioration over time of service has led to conclusions by many of its critics that the model should be abandoned. The study aimed to examine key factors contributing to poor performance of Water Users’ Association at Kasiya scheme in Lilongwe adopting mixed research design method. Quantitative data on level of governance, technical and financial status and level of service was gathered through 240 household interviews, while 20 Focus group discussions and 20 key informants’ interviews were used to gather qualitative data. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, and the Pearson Chi-square test at P <0.05 level of significance in the Statistical Package for Social Scientists version 26. Qualitative data was analysed manually using thematic analysis and quotes were used wherever necessary. Results showed poor level of governance, and weak technical and financial capacity at 5% level of significance, and negatively significant level of service (KMO = .672) due to limited water supply at a median daily consumption of 100.0 (IQR = 58.0) litres from minimum of 150.0 (IQR = 87.0) litres. The study concluded that the Kasiya WUA faced several governances, technical and financial challenges attributed to mainly inadequate governance capacity, low tariff to match pumping and operation costs. Further, poor performance was more of the implementation problem than the Water Users’ Association model itself since many implementers neglected adequate community involvement and follow up support. Therefore, the study strongly recommends that this scheme and other schemes not currently performing well should increasingly be supported by local governments until they attain capacity to operate as mini water boards.