Browsing by Author "Acen, Vicky"

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    Water Tariff Structures and Access to Clean Water.
    (Makerere University Business School, 2024-11-14) Acen, Vicky
    This study investigates the influence of water tariffs, willingness to pay and household income on access to clean water in Lira City, Uganda. A mixed-method approach was employed, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Quantitative data were gathered through a structured questionnaire survey, while qualitative insights were obtained from focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews. The questionnaire survey captured responses from a diverse cross-section of households, assessing their perceptions of water pricing, accessibility, and service quality. FGDs and key informant interviews provided in-depth perspectives from community leaders, water vendors, and water management committee members, enriching the understanding of the contextual dynamics influencing water access. The findings reveal a significant relationship between water tariff levels and access to clean water, with affordability emerging as a critical factor. While majority of households found current tariffs manageable, however, a substantial portion reported difficulties in affording water services, particularly among lower-income groups. The study also highlights a strong willingness among residents to pay more for reliable and higher-quality water services, contingent upon improved proximity and service consistency. These results underscore the need for policy interventions that consider income-based tariff structures and targeted subsidies to enhance water accessibility for vulnerable populations. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on urban water management in Sub Saharan Africa, offering practical implications for policymakers and water service providers in designing equitable pricing strategies. Future research should explore the long-term effects of alternative tariff models on water accessibility and sustainability within similar urban contexts.