African Chemistry Journal (Pure Science) | 10 August 2009
Adoption Dynamics of Rainwater Harvesting Systems in Urban Slums of Lagos, Nigeria: Water Security and Sanitation Impacts
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Abstract
Urban slums in Lagos, Nigeria face significant water security challenges, with inadequate infrastructure for clean drinking water and sanitation facilities. Qualitative research methods including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were employed to gather data from slum communities in Lagos, Nigeria. Residents adopted rainwater harvesting systems at varying rates: 34% of households reported installing one or more systems. The primary driver was perceived health benefits related to safer drinking water. Rainwater harvesting systems show promise as a community-led solution for improving water security and sanitation in urban slums, though uptake varies by socio-economic factors. Government should support the development of rainwater harvesting infrastructure and provide subsidies or education programmes to encourage wider adoption. rainwater harvesting, urban slums, Lagos, Nigeria, water security, sanitation