Effects of Rapid Urbanization on Water Services Delivery in Tanzania.

Abstract

This research aimed to investigate the effect of rapid urbanisation on water service delivery in Tanzania. The study utilised the Resource Dependency Theory, Socio-Ecological Systems Theory, and Urban Ecological Theory supported by various research methods. Moreover, the study adopted a quantitative research approach and descriptive research design in which a structured questionnaire was applied to collect data from 110 respondents. Furthermore, data analysis was done through SPSS in testing for Pearson Chi-Square, One-Way ANOVA, and ordinal regression analysis. The results indicated that deforestation, flooding and freshwater extraction affect water service delivery in Tanzania. Thus, the government needs to work towards ensuring sustainable and reliable water service delivery for Tanzanians while safeguarding the environment and enhancing the community's resilience against future challenges. Also, water supply and sanitation authorities should take proactive steps to mitigate the adverse effects of deforestation, flooding, and freshwater extraction on water service delivery while ensuring more reliable and sustainable water delivery to the community. Nevertheless, higher learning institutions are valuable contributors to addressing the environmental challenges affecting water service delivery and promoting a sustainable and resilient future for the communities they serve.