Reframing Household Information Access for Water Project Sustainability in Rural Kenya

Aim: This study examines why increased access to household-level water-related information does not consistently translate into sustainable practices, using the Muhuru Community Water Supply Project (MUCOWAS) in Migori County, Kenya as a case study. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining 267 household reviews, 25 key informant interviews, and 3 focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analysed using Firth’s logistic regression to identify predictors of sustainable behaviour, while qualitative insights were derived through thematic coding of stakeholder views. Results: The study found that household information access alone had little effect on sustainability; however, when combined with strong community participation and effective management structures, it significantly enhanced sustainable practices. Conclusion: The study concludes that household information is only effective when communities are actively involved in interpreting and applying it within inclusive governance systems. Recommendations: To enhance rural water project sustainability, project managers should embed household information access within participatory governance structures, using culturally tailored, inclusive communication strategies that empower communities as co-creators of project knowledge and accountability.