Challenges of Water Management towards Socio-Economic Development in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

This paper examines the challenges of water management towards Socio-economic development in sub-Saharan Africa. The specific objectives of the paper are to 1) review challenges associated with water management in Sub-Saharan Africa; and 2) indicate that water provision and management is a factor in socio-economic development of the region. The methodological approach for the paper is literature review. Water is a fundamental need for all humans, as well as all other living beings. Amongst other things, water provision and management is considered important for socio-economic growth and development as well as poverty alleviation. The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as one of the vehicles that can be used to promote socio-economic development were put together as a “global anti-poverty push”. Attainment of the MDGs also needs effective water management and provision. By agreeing on the MDGs the world promised to reduce the number of people who do not have access to safe drinking water by half by 2015. The findings of the paper from the literature review indicate that many parts of the world are seemingly on their way to meeting the MDG water provision and management target, with the exception of most countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The situation is worse in rural areas where only about 50%, compared to 80% of people in urban areas, have access to safe drinking water. It is expected that by 2015 at least 48 countries will be facing water shortages. About 22 of those countries are in Sub-Saharan Africa, indicating the need to keep water management as a priority in this region. This paper provides an overview of factors and/or challenges that impact on the management and delivery of water in sub-Saharan Africa as well as recommendations on improving the provision of water. Therefore, the paper demonstrates that water management remains a challenge and should be put on all agenda that are geared towards socio-economic development. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n27p1391