

@mastersthesis {7211,
	title = {Sustainability of rural water services in low-income countries: case studies in sub-{Saharan} {Africa}},
	year = {2008},
	note = {U524169},
	school = {University of Glamorgan (Wales) (United Kingdom)},
	type = {phdPh.{D}.},
	address = {Ann Arbor},
	abstract = {{\textless}p {\textgreater}Is the sustainability of rural water services in low-income countries currently poor, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, and what can be done to improve this situation?{\^A} The papers on which this research submission is based used selected case studies of countries in sub-Saharan Africa to assess key factors contributing to this state of rural water supply services.{\^A} This was achieved through content analysis of rural water supply policy documents from sub-Saharan African countries; community sampling, focus group discussions and key informant interviews in several countries; comprehensive review of management models implemented across the sub-continent; detailed financial analysis of long-term operational costs for rural water supply systems; assessment of the performance of different rural water supply technologies; technical analysis of drilling data and water source sustainability; and analysis of supply chain viability.{\textless}/p{\textgreater} {\textless}p {\textgreater}Policy analysis revealed common themes that may impact on the sustainability of rural water provision, including decentralisation, privatisation and community management. Community sampling, focus group discussions and key informant interviews showed that communities require more information from implementing agencies; greater choice in relation to technology and management options, and sustained institutional support.{\^A} A review of management models implemented across the sub-continent identified the need for greater flexibility in management approaches, and the need to explore alternatives based on sustainable incentives.{\^A} Detailed financial analysis of long-term operational costs for rural water supply systems revealed that costings are generally insufficient and communities are not provided with sufficient information on financial implications to make informed decisions.{\^A} It is concluded that greater interconnectedness between technology, environment, supply chains, financing and management is needed within co-ordinated programmes, supported by enabling policies.{\textless}/p{\textgreater}},
	keywords = {(UMI)AAIU524169, 0503:Agricultural economics, Agricultural economics, Bibliographies, Psychology{\textendash}Abstracting, Social sciences, Statistics},
	url = {http://search.proquest.com/docview/898748449?accountid=14270},
	author = {Harvey, P A}
}
