Breakthrough ACTION Liberia Peri-Urban Water Study Report 2021

This technical report from a 2021 study on peri-urban water access, quality, and use in Montserrado county was conducted by the Johns Hopkins University Center for Communications Programs and Save the Children.

The primary objectives of the study were to:

• Deepen understanding of the drivers and barriers to household water source selection in peri-urban communities of Montserrado
• Explore households preferences and practices related to storage, treatment and use in peri-urban communities of Montserrado County

The main findings of this study are the following:

• A large proportion (63%) of the respondents from the three study sites have challenges securing the minimum quantity of water for daily use as outlined by WHO’s 20 liter/person/day minimum.
• Household access to improved water sources is relatively high, although water sources vary based on season, convenience, perceived water quality, and distance
• Despite close proximity to water sources, household water collection burdens are extremely high.
• Household water storage practices and sanitation practices create significant drinking water quality risks and affect household confidence in water quality
• Gender disparities in household water responsibilities remain high.
• Household access to safe and sufficient water resources is hampered by cost, convenience, and reliability of water systems.

For questions or comments, contact
Dr. Nandita Kapadia-Kundu: nkapadi4@jhu.edu
Dr. Stephen Sara: ssara@savechildren.org

Source: Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs, Save the Children

Date of Publication: November 22, 2021