The Role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Provision of Water Supply and Sanitation Services in Tanzania.

Abstract

This chapter provides background information on the study. The chapter includes the aim of the study, the research problem (knowledge gap), the objectives of the study, the research approach, the research design, sample size and sampling techniques, data generation methods, data analysis methods, findings, and recommendations. The dissertation explores the role of ICT in Bunda, Tanzania's water supply and sanitation services, identifying challenges and identifying strategies for improved integration. The research utilized a closed-ended questionnaire methodology, defining objectives and designing a structured questionnaire with clear, closed-ended questions for demographic information. A survey of 300 Water Sanitation and Service Provision experts in Bunda, Tanzania, collected demographic data including gender, age, education, experience, and primary expertise areas. The findings regarding the role of ICT in water supply and sanitation services in Bunda revealed that a majority of respondents agreed that ICT can significantly improve operational efficiency, data collection, communication, emergency response, revenue collection, customer service, asset management, water quality, and resource planning. The study‘s findings highlight the complex challenges faced by the region in implementing ICT, including unreliable internet connectivity, insufficient infrastructure, funding constraints, technical skills, resistance to change, and data privacy concerns. Based on the findings, strategies for enhancing ICT integration include investing in infrastructure, fostering partnerships, ensuring data privacy, developing standardized protocols, implementing user-friendly platforms, exploring innovative financing models, and prioritizing renewable energy sources. Therefore, this research explores the role, challenges, and strategies of enhancing ICT integration in Bunda, Tanzania's water utility services, aiming to improve service delivery, sustainability, and resilience.