THE INFLUENCE OF WATER SUPPLY ON CONSUPTION PATTERNS

WITHIN MATHARE AREA IN NAIROBI CITY.

NJOROGE JOYCE KANINI

KED/G/081/21

A RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF

BACHELOR OF EDUCATION (ARTS) OF KIRIRI WOMENS
UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

APRIL, 2025
 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.0 Introduction

This chapter will contain the background of the study, statement of the problem, specific
objectives, justification and significance of the study, hypothesis of the study, research questions,
scope, and limitations of the study.

1.1 Background of the study

In the bustling metropolis of Nairobi, the dynamics of water supply and consumption patterns
will form a critical nexus of urban infrastructure and livelihood. Rapid urbanization will intensify
pressures on global water systems, particularly impacting informal settlements. Understanding
water usage patterns within these settlements will be of importance for better addressing water
scarcity issues.

According to Gleick (1996), understanding these patterns will be essential for sustainable urban
development and equitable access to water resources. Water resources will become increasingly
limited due to factors such as rapid population growth, urbanization, infrastructure limitations,
and environmental considerations. Wada et al. project that global water use will continue to grow
in the 21st century, influenced by factors such as economic development. The projection will
underscore the need for sustainable water management practices to accommodate future
consumption patterns.

Srinivasan et al. (2012) emphasize the importance of demand management strategies in an urban
context. Hence, the study will scrutinize the resilience of Nairobi’s water supply infrastructure,
probing its capacity to meet the arising demands while navigating systematic challenges such as
leakages, aging pipelines, and inadequate storage facilities. Barlow & Clarke (2002) will

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advocate for recognizing water as a fundamental human right, emphasizing the need for public
management and equitable distribution to ensure sustainable consumption patterns globally.

They will also address the challenges posed by climate change, such as erratic rainfall patterns
and prolonged droughts, further underscoring the urgency of comprehending Nairobi’s water
supply on consumption dynamics to inform effective policies and management strategies.

Inconsistencies in water supply and service inefficiencies will lead consumers to seek alternative
water sources. Their behavior will result in varied consumption patterns, often influenced by the
reliability of the primary water service provider, as stated by Karanja, J. (2018). According to
Karimi, M.E. (2011), several factors will contribute to substandard water service delivery,
including low water production from sources and increased demand. These insights will be
crucial for understanding the dynamics affecting water supply in informal settlements. While this
study will not directly address consumption patterns, it will offer a comprehensive analysis of
water service delivery challenges in informal settlements, which can directly influence
consumption patterns.

Kimani & Ngindu (2007) will provide valuable insight into the challenges of water quality in
informal settlements and underscore the critical need for improved water supply and sanitation
infrastructure to enhance healthy outcomes in such communities. They will highlight the health
risks associated with contaminated water and the prevalence of waterborne diseases among slum
dwellers, emphasizing the need for interventions to improve water quality to safeguard public
health.

Ouma, P. will focus on public water supplies, water policy, and the management of multifaceted
water resources in Mathare, providing insights into the complexities of water governance in the
area. Additionally, an assessment of public-private partnerships in water supply and governance
in Mathare will highlight the need for reconsidering water governance systems to improve
service delivery in informal settlements.

Despite the above studies, little will have been done on the influence of water supply on
consumption patterns. Hence, there will be a need for comprehensive strategies that address

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infrastructure deficits, governance challenges, and socio-economic disparities to ensure equitable
water access.

1.2 Statement of problem

Water is a vital resource for survival and development, yet its availability remains a significant
challenge in many informal settlements. In Mathare area, Nairobi city, the irregular and
unreliable supply of water has led to fluctuating consumption patterns, particularly among low-
income households. These households, facing inadequate infrastructure and limited access to
piped water, often rely on alternative sources, such water vendors and community taps, which
can be costly and of questionable quality.
Despite numerous efforts to address the water supply challenges in Mathare, the distribution
remains inefficient, and consumption patterns continue to vary based on socio-economic status,
access to infrastructure, and geographic location within the settlement. The irregular water
supply not only exacerbates water scarcity but also has significant implications for health,
hygiene and overall wellbeing of residents.

The existing studies on water supply and consumption patterns largely overlooks the specific
challenges faced by informal settlements such as urbanization, high population density and
poverty thus creating unique water access issues. There is need to investigate how the
availability and reliability of water supply influence consumption behaviors and how these
patterns can be optimized to improve water access and quality in the community. Understanding
these dynamics is crucial for developing sustainable water management strategies that can
improve access and promote equitable consumption patterns in the area. Therefore, this study
aims to explore the influence of water supply on consumption patterns in Mathare area, Nairobi
County

1.3 Primary objectives

To examine the rate of water supply on consumption patterns within Mathare area, Nairobi city.

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1.4 Specific objectives
1. To investigate how infrastructure influence water accessibility in Mathare area.
2. To examine the relationship between socio-economic characteristics and patterns of water
consumption within Mathare area.
3. To assess the challenges facing water accessibility among residents in Mathare area.

1.5 Hypothesis of the study

1. There is no significant relationship between distance of water source and amount of water
consumed.
2. There is no significant relationship between income and quantity of water consumed.
3. There is a relationship between the amount of water consumed by the households and the
reliability and availability of infrastructure.

1.6 Research questions

1. How socio- economic factors influence water consumption behavior in Mathare?

1. What strategies are currently in place to manage and conserve water resources in
Mathare, Nairobi city?
2. What are the primary sources of water supply within Mathare, Nairobi city?

1.7 Justification and significance of the study

1.7.1 Justification of the study

The Mathare area in Nairobi city is one of the largest informal settlements in the city, with high
population density and limited access to basic services, including water. In such environments,
the availability and reliability of water supply are major factors influencing consumption
patterns. These patterns are crucial in determining the health, socio economic development and
overall quality of life for the residents.

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1.7.2 Significance of the study

1. Policy implications - the findings from this study will contribute to the development of
evidence-based policies aimed at improving water supply systems in informal
settlements. These policies will focus on enhancing infrastructure, reducing the cost of
water, and ensuring more equitable distribution.
2. Improved water access and quality - by understanding the factors influencing
consumption patterns, local authorities and NGOs will design more effective
interventions to increase water availability, reduce reliance on unsafe water sources, and
improve water quality in Mathare.
3. Social and economic benefits - equitable water access will be critical to addressing social
inequalities and promoting economic empowerment. This study will help to identify
strategies to improve the socio-economic conditions of residents by reducing the financial
burden of accessing water and improving the quality of life.
4. Sustainable water management - the study will also offer insights into sustainable water
management practices that can be implemented in similar informal settlements, thereby
contributing to broader regional and national efforts to address water scarcity and
improve urban water governance.

1.8 Scope and limitation of the study

1.8.1 Scope of the study

1. Geographical focus - The study will concentrate on Mathare, an informal settlement

located within Nairobi County. This area will be characterized by high population
density, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to basic services, including reliable
water supply.
2. Target population - The study will target households in Mathare that rely on various
water sources such as piped water, water vendors, and community taps. It will also
consider the socio-economic status of these households, their access to water, and how
water availability influences their consumption behaviors.

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 3. Time frame - The study will be conducted within a defined period, typically several
months, allowing for data collection on water availability, frequency of supply, cost, and
consumption patterns. The temporal scope will help to capture both seasonal variations in
water supply and daily consumption behaviors.

1.8.2 Limitation of the study

1. Geographical limitation - the study will only focus on Mathare area; hence, the findings
will not be fully generalizable to other informal settlements in Nairobi County with
similar socio-economic dynamics and infrastructure.
2. Access to respondents - due to the informal nature of the settlement, some residents will
be difficult to reach or reluctant to participate due to privacy concerns or lack of time.
This will affect the accuracy of the data collected.
3. Inconsistent water supply - one of the main challenges of this study will be the variability
of water supply in Mathare area. The study will face difficulties in accurately assessing
consumption patterns over a specific period if water supply is inconsistent.

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 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

Water will be an essential resource for life sustenance, yet its availability will vary across
different households and regions. Understanding how infrastructure will influence accessibility
of water, challenges in water supply, and socio-economic influence on consumption behaviors
will be crucial for effective water management strategies. This literature review will aim to
explore these dimensions within the context of Nairobi City.

2.2 The influence of infrastructure on water accessibility

Water accessibility will be a critical component of sustainable development, public health, and
economic productivity (Gleick, 1996). Various studies will examine this relationship, employing
diverse methodologies to assess the impact of infrastructural elements on water accessibility.
Obunga (2020) will conduct a comprehensive study focusing on public water supplies and the
management of multifaceted water resources in various informal settlements and rural areas. The
research will utilize a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative data collection through
household surveys with qualitative insights from key informant interviews and focus groups. The
study will reveal that inadequate infrastructure, such as dilapidated pipelines and insufficient
water points, coupled with ineffective water policies, will significantly hinder water accessibility.
Collectively, the study will underscore the critical role of well-planned and managed
infrastructure in improving water accessibility in Kenya’s informal settlements and rural areas. It
will also highlight the importance of cohesive policies and community involvement to ensure
sustainable and equitable water access. The research will find that while infrastructure
construction provides a sense of security, its effectiveness will often be strained during dry
seasons due to the unreliability of natural water sources. Obunga’s research will broadly study
most of the informal settlements in Kenya, including rural areas.

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Usuk (2015) will employ a mixed-method approach combining household surveys with focus
group discussions in Mathare and Mukuru informal settlements. The study will aim to assess
water accessibility against international and national policies. The research will find that water
accessibility in Mathare and Mukuru falls short of both international and national standards.
Residents will face challenges such as irregular water supply, long distances to water points, and
high costs imposed by private vendors. These factors will adversely affect the quality of life,
with a significant portion of residents perceiving water access as a critical issue. The study will
highlight the need for improved infrastructure and management to address the challenges faced
by residents in the community.

Moreover, alternative water sources, such as water kiosks, will become the primary source for
many households. These kiosks, however, will be susceptible to price manipulation as they will
not be directly regulated by the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company (NCWSC). Ngigi &
Macharia (2006) will argue that despite various projects aimed at improving the water supply,
such as Mathare North Community Water Projects, infrastructure challenges will remain a major
barrier to equitable water access. This will call for more studies on the influence of water supply
on consumption patterns, addressing infrastructural needs and its accessibility as key elements in
improving water supply.

2.3 Relationship between socio-economic characteristics and patterns of water consumption

The socio-economic status of households will play a significant role in shaping patterns of water
consumption. Factors such as income level, employment status, household size, and education
will significantly shape water consumption behaviors. A study by Kimani (2021) will use a
quantitative approach employing regression analysis to establish a correlation between education
level and water consumption. The study will find that households with educated heads will be
more likely to adopt water conservation techniques and use storage facilities, improving their
ability to manage water consumption efficiently.

Ndungu et al. (2020) will apply GIS mapping and household surveys to analyze spatial
disparities in water access and consumption in Mathare. Their findings will indicate that socio-

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economic inequalities will significantly contribute to variations in water consumption patterns,
with better-serviced zones consuming more water than underserved areas. Additionally, cultural
factors and awareness campaigns will be shown to influence conservation practices among
different demographic groups (Martin et al. 2021). This study will address how income level and
employment status will significantly influence water consumption patterns in Mathare area.

2.4 Challenges facing water accessibility for residents in Mathare area

Access to clean water and reliable water will remain a significant challenge in Mathare,
influenced by infrastructural, economic, and governance-related issues. Owuor & Mutua (2018)
will conduct an ethnographic study using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with
Mathare residents. Their research will reveal that water cartels control distributions in many
areas, leading to inflated prices and inconsistent supply. Muthoni & Mwangi (2022) will employ
a case study approach, analyzing government policies and their effectiveness in addressing water
accessibility issues. Their study will find that inadequate public infrastructure investments and
corruption in water management institutions will be major barriers to equitable water access.

Karanja et al. (2021) will use participatory mapping and community surveys to document the
role of informal water vendors in Mathare. They will conclude that while vendors provide an
essential service, their prices will be significantly higher than those of municipal water services,
disproportionately affecting low-income households. Ahmed et al. (2017) will identify aging
infrastructure and rapid urbanization as key challenges facing water supply systems in
developing cities.

In conclusion, the review will highlight the significant influence of socio-economic factors on
water consumption in Mathare, with income and education playing critical roles. Additionally,
challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, water cartels, and governance issues will hinder
equitable access to water. Furthermore, the availability of water supply will directly impact
consumption behaviors, forcing residents to adapt to shortages through alternative means. Future
research should focus on policy interventions, infrastructure development, and sustainable
solutions to improve water accessibility for residents in informal settlements like Mathare.

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2.5 Theoretical Framework

This research will be guided by Water Demand Theory by Amartya Sen (1980). This theory will
emphasize the importance of understanding individual preferences and capabilities in
determining water demand. Sen will argue that water demand isn’t solely dictated by physical
need but will also be influenced by social factors, economic factors, and government policies.
Therefore, any analysis of water demand within Mathare area in Nairobi city will need to
consider a wide range of factors including income levels, access to infrastructure, cultural
practices, and government interventions

2.6 Conceptual Framework

Independent variables Dependent variables

1.Availability 1.Efficiency
2.Reliability 2.Water accessibility
3.Affordability 3.Water conservation
4.Infrastructure 4.Water sources
5.Governance

Intervening Factors
1.Socio-economic status
2.Awareness and education
3.Household size and structure
4.Government regulations
5. Climate change

Table 2.6 Conceptual framework

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This conceptual framework will highlight the dynamic relationship between water supply and
consumption patterns in Mathare. Independent variables such as availability, pricing, and
governance will directly influence how water is accessed and utilized. Intervening factors like
socio-economic status, climate, and regulation will further shape these consumption patterns.
Understanding these interactions will be essential for developing policies and infrastructure
improvements that enhance water access and sustainability in urban informal settlements like
Mathare.

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 CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

Methodology will be integral to research, and this chapter will be dedicated to discussing the
methodology to be adopted and the reason for using it in the study. The various sections will
focus on the research design, target population, sampling, and data collection methods. The study
will be done in a systematic manner where both primary and secondary data will be collected in
order to meet the objectives.

3.2 Research Design

This study will aim to investigate the influence of water supply on consumption patterns within
Mathare area. For the purpose of carrying out this study, a descriptive research design will be
appropriate. Descriptive research design will be adopted because it will allow the researcher to
describe the situation as it is and will allow the researcher to obtain a holistic meaning of the
phenomena under investigation (Blumberg et al 2014).

3.3 Study location

This study will be carried out in Mathare, a densely populated informal settlement located in the
northeastern part of Nairobi city, Kenya. Geographically, Mathare will lie approximately 6
kilometers from Nairobi’s central business district, situated between Nairobi River to the south
and the northern bypass to the north. The area will be characterized by a hilly terrain and narrow
valleys with informal housing structures built close to each other. The settlement will be
surrounded by other low-income neighborhoods such as Kayole, Dandora, and Eastleigh. Due to
the area's steep slope and the lack of a formal piped water system, water will often be supplied in
an irregular and fragmented manner. Mathare will be an informal settlement or a slum that will

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face significant challenges related to accessing clean water, including limited infrastructure,
unreliable supply, and high-water costs. Mathare will also have a high population density with
thousands of residents living in a closely packed area with high water demand leading to unique
consumption patterns. The residents in Mathare will use a mix of piped water, boreholes, water
vendors, and rainwater harvesting, offering a rich environment for studying consumption
behaviors. By studying Mathare, researchers will gather real-life data on how water supply
constraints shape daily consumption habits, hygiene practices, and household water management
strategies, hence it will be a critical area for study.

3.4 Target population

A population will be defined as all the individuals in a group who share an observable trait
Mugenda, (1999). The study will focus on individuals and groups in Mathare who will be
directly involved in water access and consumption. The target total population of Mathare area
will be approximately 500,000 people per unit area and the study target population will be
66,634 households. The key target groups will include households who will rely on different
water sources for daily use, water vendors (the suppliers who will sell water among residents),
community leaders, that is local administrators who will have knowledge of water supply issues,
and local water authorities, e.g., Nairobi Water Sewerage Company, who will be officials
responsible for water supply management in Mathare.

3.5 Sample size

Sample size will refer to units selected from a larger population to participate in a research study.
It will represent a subset of the population that will be analyzed to draw conclusions about the
entire group.

GIVEN MATHARE’S ESTIMATED POPULATION OF 66,634 HOUSEHOLDS,A STATISTICALLY

APPROPRIATE SAMPLE SIZE CAN BE CALCULATED USING YAMANE’S FORMULA;

n=N/1+N(e^2)

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where,
N= Population size (66,634)
E=Margin of error (5% or 0.05 for confidence level 95%)
n=Sample size

n=66,634/1+66,634(0.05^2)

n=66,634/1+1250

n=66,634/1251

n=400
As a result, the total respondents required is 400 people.

3.6 Sampling techniques

The study will adopt three sampling techniques, which are stratified sampling since Mathare
consists of different zones, e.g., Mathare North, Mathare 4A, Kosovo, etc., each with unique
water supply challenges. Stratifying will ensure balanced representation across all areas. Simple
random sampling will be used for different households since this method will ensure every
household has an equal chance of being selected, minimizing bias and making findings
generalizable. Finally, purposive sampling will be used for water vendors, community leaders,
and water authorities. Thus, a sample size of 400 respondents will be appropriate for the study,
comprising 300 households, 50 water vendors, 30 community leaders, and 20 water authorities.
This technique will enhance diverse knowledge and roles in water distribution and management,
making their insight crucial.

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3.7 Research instruments

Questionnaires will be used as the main instrument to collect primary data among the
households. The study will settle on using structured questionnaires because it will allow the
collection of a large amount of data and information since respondents will be given adequate
time to fill out the questionnaires. Interviews will also be used to collect data among the water
vendors, community leaders, and water authorities. This is because interviews will enhance a
one-on-one discussion leading to detailed responses and follow-up questions to explore complex
issues related to water supply and consumption behaviors.

3.8 Research Procedure

A pilot study was done in order to look for the clarity and reliability of the tool to collect data
that is relevant and of better quality to be used in the study. A 10% sample of the main study was
used that is 40 respondents, 30 households, 5 water vendors, 3 community leaders and 2 water
authorities. Drop and pick method was used to administer the questionnaires where respondents
were given the questionnaires and later picked up once they had been filled.

3.9 Reliability and validity

First, the researcher receives a research permit from the school to conduct a study and later seeks
approval from relevant authorities, i.e., Nairobi Water Sewerage Company and local
administration. After receiving a go-ahead for the study, the researcher starts collecting data. A
door-to-door survey using questionnaires is administered to different households, water vendors,
community leaders, and water authorities.

The collected questionnaires are coded and edited for completeness and consistency. Descriptive
statistics is used to analyze quantitative data using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS).
These are presented in tables, figures, and explanations given.

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3.10 Data collection procedure, analysis and presentation

First, the researcher receives a research permit from the school to conduct a study and later seeks
approval from relevant authorities, i.e., Nairobi Water Sewerage Company and local
administration. After receiving a go-ahead for the study, the researcher starts collecting data. A
door-to-door survey using questionnaires is administered to different households, water vendors,
community leaders, and water authorities.

The collected questionnaires are coded and edited for completeness and consistency. Descriptive
statistics is used to analyze quantitative data using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS).
These are presented in tables, figures, and explanations given.

3.11 Ethical considerations

The participants are informed about the study purpose and their voluntary participation is sought.
The researcher ensures data anonymity and security in the storage of the data by protecting the
participants' identities. The respondents are assured of voluntary participation and they have the
right to withdraw at any stage. Ethical clearance is obtained from relevant bodies before data
collection to foster transparency and trust. Cultural sensitivity and community engagement are
equally vital in this research. The researcher ensures respect for local community norms by
involving community leaders. The researcher also ensures no bias in participant selection and
data interpretation to ensure fairness and accurate findings. Lastly, approval from the ethics
committee is sought to ensure the research meets ethical standards and regulations, contributing
to responsible and respectful research practices.

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Karimi, M. E. (2011). Challenges of water service delivery in informal settlements. Journal of

Urban Studies, 45(3), 123-134.

Kimani, V. N., & Ngindu, A. M. (2007). Quality of water the slum dwellers use: The case of a
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Owuor, B., & Mutua, A. (2018). Water cartels and accessibility challenges in Mathare. Journal
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Muthoni, C., & Mwangi, P. (2022). Government policies and water accessibility in Nairobi.
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