Working Paper 6. Linkages between Water Supply and Sanitation and Food Security: A case study in four villages of East Hararghe zone, Oromia region.
The central purpose of this study is to assess the linkages between water supply and sanitation (WSS) and food security at a micro level by taking a sample of villages with and without water schemes in East Hararghe zone of Oromia region. East Hararghe is characterised by water scarcity and food insecurity. Food security has a strong relationship with agricultural performance. Physical and socioeconomic services and infrastructure, such as water schemes, are essential elements in improving rural food security. Access to safe drinking water reduces exposure to a variety of diseases that obstruct the intake and utilisation of food, as well as expenses related to health. In addition, easier access to safe water reduces time spent by women hauling water, thereby increasing their productivity. This study uses an analytical framework that identifies the multiple attributes related to both WSS and food security and offers assumptions as to the nature of their interconnections. The framework assumes two-way relationships between WSS and food security at household level. Access to sufficient and safe water in a sustainable basis will help in the various dimensions of food security, that is, reducing vulnerability to shocks; increasing food availability and access; and enhancing the utilisation components by improving health and sanitation. These dimensions enhance people's wellbeing and food security status.
RiPPLE Office, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. 51 pp.