Institutional Frameworks and Household Clean Water Accessibility in Peri-Urban Communities of Northern Tanzania: A Case of the Suburban Ward

Abstract

The lack of clean water contributes to the transmission of waterborne diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid, particularly among vulnerable populations. This situation threatens public health, especially in resource-limited settings. Various regulatory and environmental factors, including bylaws and policies, water tariffs, electricity access, flooding, infrastructure conditions, pollution, and drought, significantly impact access to clean water by influencing the availability and quality of water resources. This study examines the regulatory environment factors affecting access to clean water in peri-urban communities reliant on piped systems, focusing on household clean water availability in northern Tanzania. Based on the Mary Douglas's Cultural Theory, the study adopted a cross-sectional design to collect quantitative data. Questionnaires were administered to a purposive sample of 353 respondents drawn from a target population of 10,965 individuals from 3,030 households, all aged 18 years or older. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics with the aid of SPSS software. Qualitative data was collected from key informants through interviews and analysed thematically. The results revealed that 51% were aware of the water and environmental policies, 84.7% participated in meetings, 23.2% paid water bills, and access to clean water throughout the year was challenging. The chi-square test indicated a significant relationship (χ² = 48.118, df = 12, p = 0.000) between institutional frameworks and clean water accessibility. Additionally, planting trees and properly managing water sources contribute to the protection of water resources. Educating the community and protecting water sources play a significant role in preserving ecological health and ensuring the sustainability of communities. The study concludes that there is a relationship between regulatory frameworks and clean water accessibility in northern Tanzania. The study recommends continuous provision of education and awareness programs focused on the effective use, management, and protection of water sources to ensure public health and clean water accessible sustainability.