Role of Media Community Mobilization in Water Access and Use in Mbeere South, Kenya

Abstract

This research project set out to study the link between media community mobilization and water access and use in Mbeere South constituency, Kenya. The study seeks to find out how media engagement with stakeholders affects water access and use in the study area. The objective of the study was to find out what water sources are available to residents within the study area; the media platforms available in the study area and the frequency of their use; how stakeholders articulate water access issues; and the influence of media community mobilization on water access and use in the study area. The study utilizes a descriptive study design. Data was collected using Key Informant Interviews, Focus Group Discussions and semi-structured interviews. The study instruments yielded both qualitative and quantitative data. The study observed ethical considerations including seeking consent and observing COVID-19 precautions. The study findings indicate that the most common source of water available to residents is boreholes while piped water is the least available source in the study area. Most respondents spend more than one hour to access the water sources and most of the water is used for domestic purposes. Community management of water sources remains the most common form of water management. The radio emerges as the most common media platform available in the study area and consequently radio discussions are the most known means of engagement on water issues in the area. A majority do not know of social action taken after media engagement on water issues, but there is knowledge of demonstrations and meetings to address water challenges in the study area. Respondents do not think media community mobilization has influenced water access and use in Mbeere South, with most respondents stating there is no change in access and use as a result of the media articulation. The study concludes that despite a weak link between media engagement on water issues and water access and use in Mbeere South constituency, there is evidence of significant media community engagement on water issues and high collaboration between residents, local leaders, county government and KENGEN company. There is need for studies on how formal and informal rules and Embu county government institutions influence the distribution of water resources in Mbeere South constituency.