Monitoring and Evaluation of Rural Water Supplies Sustainability in Ghana

Abstract

Sustaining functionality and service levels of rural water systems in Ghana remains fraught with difficulties and can undermine the achievement of sustainable development goal six. The aim of this article is to contribute to emerging literature on monitoring and evaluation by assessing rural water system functionality, service levels and performance of service providers and authorities, particularly in terms of compliance to the Community Water and Sanitation Agency norms and standards. While more than three quarters of handpumps and piped schemes are functional, only 5% handpumps and 22% piped schemes provide basic services. Service providers have challenges in the area of composition, bank accounts, up-to-date financial and operational records, routine maintenance, and water quality testing in line with national guidelines. The study found that only one service authority carried out regular monitoring support toservice providers for small communities. This study highlights how systematic monitoring of rural water facilities, service providers and authorities provide information necessary to plan, set targets, budget , monitor progress , take remedial action and ensure accountability and sustainability of services. This article argues the need for stronger and regular post-construction support such as monitoring and evaluation and capacity building for service providers and authority to safeguard sustainable waterservices.