Multiple-use water systems and rural livelihoods in north-western Ghana: adjusting to a failed hope

ABSTRACT

This study examines the sustainability of multiple-use water systems (MUS) and the associated livelihood issues among women gardeners in north-western Ghana. Focus group discussions and observation techniques were used as part of a qualitative approach to data collection. We found that the MUS strategy has the ability to improve livelihoods. However, the viability of the strategy necessitates technical assistance and innovative fund-raising strategies. The MUS facility (the hope of the people) failed because these conditions were inadequate. Due to the beneficiaries’ worsening situation, alternative livelihoods were adopted, such as the migration of married women to southern Ghana, the production of charcoal and the harvesting of wild fruits.

KEYWORDS:

• Sustainability
• livelihood
• multiple-use water systems
• small-scale irrigation
• Ghana

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.