Spatial distribution and accessibility of potable water in rural and small-town water systems

This study assesses the spatial distribution and accessibility of potable water sources among rural and small-town communities in the Upper West Region of Ghana. With a focus on Charia, Nator, and Jawia, the study examines socio-demographic factors affecting water access, the functionality of water infrastructure, and households’ reliance on multiple water sources. Using mixed methods with a combination of spatial analysis and descriptive statistics, the study reveals significant disparities in water accessibility within and across the study communities. In Charia, the central water system has collapsed, leaving residents heavily reliant on boreholes, some of which are non-functional. For Nator and Jawia, water points are uneven while being served by functional small-town water supply systems, forcing many households to travel substantial distances for their daily water needs. In addition, reliance on seasonal sources, such as rainwater and open wells, highlights the precariousness of water security in these areas. The study underscores the role of socioeconomic factors, particularly income and education levels, in shaping households' access to safe water sources. Furthermore, the high prevalence of intermittent water supply and substantial travel distances challenge the WHO and UNICEF’s standards for water accessibility. This paper provides critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to reduce rural water access inequalities. It also emphasizes the need for robust, locally adapted interventions to improve infrastructure in rural and small-town water systems.