ABSTRACT

Water scarcity is a pressing issue in many regions around the world, including Molyko South, a community facing severe water shortages. The objective which guided us was the drivers of water scarcity, implications of water scarcity on the population of Molyko South, and analyzing its impact on health, economic development, and overall quality of life and possible solution like water resources management, policy reforms, and water laws. In this light a mix research design was used to address the problem, through interviews, questionnaire and field observation with community members, local leaders.

The result indicated that the most pressing issue contributing to water scarcity in molyko south is urbanization with 41.7% of the respondents agreeing to the fact Findings showed that water scarcity is responsible for the prevalence of water and air borne diseases, agricultural failure and it disrupts the daily activities of the population. Some adaptation measures such as rain water harvesting, water management, government investment in water infrastructures and the creation of awareness to sensitize the population about the importance of water. Water remains the yard stick to many countries and households. The study therefore concludes that for water scarcity effects to be mitigated, water should be conserved at home and the government should create awareness on water conservation measures with its importance.

CHAPTER ONE

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of Study

Water is essential for the survival of all known forms of life. It is a tasteless, odorless, and transparent liquid at room temperature, and it is the most abundant compound on Earth’s surface, covering about 71% of the planet (Nchangvi 2018) The chemical formula for water is H2O, indicating that each water molecule consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. Water exists in three primary states: solid (ice), liquid, and gas (water vapor). These states are determined by temperature and pressure conditions. At temperatures below 0°C (32°F), water freezes into ice, while at temperatures above 100°C (212°F) at standard atmospheric pressure, it boils and turns into vapor. The liquid state, which is the most common form of water on Earth, occurs between the freezing and boiling points.

Water plays a crucial role in various natural processes, including the water cycle, which involves the continuous movement of water between the atmosphere, land, and oceans. This cycle includes processes addition to its importance for sustaining life, water also serves as a solvent for a wide range of substances, making it vital for chemical reactions and biological processes (Molly 2019) It has unique properties, such as high heat capacity, surface tension, and cohesion, which contribute to its role in shaping the physical environment and supporting ecosystems. From a human perspective, water is essential for drinking, sanitation, agriculture, industry, and energy production. Access to clean and safe water is a fundamental human right and a key factor in public health and socioeconomic development. However, water resources are increasingly under stress as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and pollution especially through runoff, though it is fundamental to the regulation and the functioning of the Earth and the distribution of freshwater resources (Claire and kali ,2023)

Water scarcity is a pressing global issue that affects over 40% of the world’s population (United Nations, 2018). The United Nations has emphasized the significance of addressing water scarcity as part of its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with SDG 6 focusing on ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all (United Nations, 2015).The World Bank has highlighted the impact of water scarcity on economic development, particularly in developing countries, where it can hinder agricultural productivity, industrial growth, and access to safe drinking water (World Bank, 2019). This has significant implications for poverty reduction efforts and overall economic well-being. From a health perspective, the World Health Organization (WHO) has underscored the health implications of water scarcity, particularly in relation to waterborne diseases. Lack of access to clean water and sanitation facilities contributes to the spread of diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and dysentery, leading to significant public health challenges (World Health Organization, 2019).

Environmental organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) (2020), have highlighted the impact of water scarcity on ecosystems and biodiversity. Reduced water availability can lead to habitat loss, degradation of freshwater ecosystems, and loss of species that depend on these habitats for survival (World Wildlife Fund, 2020). In response to these challenges, international organizations have advocated for integrated water resource management, investment in water infrastructure, and the promotion of water conservation and efficiency measures (United Nations, 2018). They have also emphasized the need for cross-sectoral collaboration and policy frameworks to address the complex nature of water scarcity.

 Water scarcity in Africa is increasing at a rampant rate. According to the United Nations, over 300 million people in Africa lack access to safe drinking water, and approximately 700 million people do not have access to adequate sanitation facilities (United Nations, 2019). The World Bank has highlighted that water scarcity in Africa is exacerbated by population growth, climate change, and inefficient water management practices, leading to significant challenges for sustainable development and economic growth in the region (World Bank, 2018). The African Development Bank (AfDB) has emphasized the need for investment in water infrastructure and improved water management to address water scarcity in Africa and ensure access to clean water for all Africans (African Development Bank, 2020).

In Cameroon, the  World Bank has highlighted that access to clean water in Cameroon remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural areas, where many people still lack access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities, couple with the hostile weather condition  in certain potion of the country especially in the northern part of the country (World Bank, 2019) The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has emphasized the importance of sustainable water management in Cameroon, citing issues such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change as contributing factors to water scarcity in the country (UNDP, 2016).

The focus of this study is specifically in Buea situated in the southwest region of Cameron with an approximated population of 300,000 and land surface of 870 square kilometers (Buea Council Office Project, 2013). Water scarcity has become a significant challenge due to multiple factors. The region’s population has been rapidly increasing in recent years leading to a higher demand for water. This rising demand has outpaced the development of water infrastructure, resulting in shortage of clean and accessible water sources (Bitondo et al, 2019). Moreover, Buea South is situated in an area characterized by irregular rainfall patterns, exacerbating the vulnerability to water scarcity. Climate change has further intensified this issue, as if has led to unpredictable weather patterns and prolonged periods of drought (Ndumbe et al, 2021).

Climate changes have negatively impacted the region’s water availability especially during the dry season. Limiting access to clean water jeopardizes the health and well-being of the local population without access to safe drinking water, individuals are at a higher risk of water borne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid (Choves et al, 2020). Additionally, water scarcity hinders hygiene practices, such as hand washing, leading to a higher likelihood of contracting infectious diseases. Thus, the importance of water to the fast growing town of Buea and its role to growth necessitated the need for this study to access and suggest possible measures to combat water scarcity