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Climate Change on the Availability, Accessibility, and Quality of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (Wash) Services Within the Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area

ODONI Kelly Woyinifiemi and Ebiegberi OBORIE, PhD

Abstract

This study examines the influence of climate change on the availability, accessibility, and quality of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area (LGA) of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Utilizing a quantitative research design, the study assessed the current state of WASH services and investigated the impacts of climate variability on water supply. Primary data was collected through structured questionnaires distributed among 384 residents, and analyzed using statistical tools including correlation, regression, and chi-square tests. Findings revealed widespread dissatisfaction with water quality, with over 43% of respondents expressing dissatisfaction. Climate change was perceived to have significantly affected water availability and quality, with the most reported effects being reduced availability (30.2%) and changes in quality (28.4%). However, there was no statistically significant relationship between educational level and perception of climate change impacts. The study concludes that climate change poses significant risks to WASH services in the LGA, calling for urgent investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, local water management, and community education initiatives. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating climate resilience into WASH planning to safeguard public health and promote sustainable development in vulnerable communities.

Keywords

Climate ChangeWASH ServicesWater AvailabilitySanitationHygiene.

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