Socio-Spatial Analysis of Exposure and Susceptibility to Irrigation Water Quality Risk

Abstract

Climate variability and population growth has increased irrigation water usage in Ghana. The study compared microbial levels of irrigation water, differences in exposure, and perceptions of microbial contamination in a peri-urban and rural community. A mixed method approach was used to collect and analyse primary data. Water samples were collected and tested for faecal coliform and E. coli counts. Further, a survey, focus group discussion, and observation were used to understand the demographics of irrigation water use. Results show widespread irrigation water contamination with levels higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) acceptable threshold. The survey, focus group discussion, and observation also reveal that majority of the users of irrigation water uses their water untreated and may be vulnerable to water-borne diseases. Also, the exposure to these contaminants were location specific and correlated with level of education, years of farming experience, and agronomic practices. The study recommends education to improve the irrigation water quality and agronomic practices.