Spatio-temporal patterns of domestic water distribution, consumption and sufficiency: Neighbourhood inequalities in Nairobi, Kenya

• DOI: 10.1016/j.habitatint.2021.102476
• Publication Date: 2021-11-20T01:44:43Z
• Authors: Nyamai Mutono; Jim Wright; Henry Mutembei; S.M. Thumbi
• Keywords: Neighbourhood (mathematics); Sewerage

Whilst there are longstanding and well-established inequalities in safe-drinking water-access between urban rural areas, remain few studies of changing intra-urban over time. In this study, we determined the spatio-temporal patterns domestic piped water distribution Nairobi, Kenya 1985 2018, implications socio-economic neighbourhood sufficiency. Using data from Nairobi sewerage utility company for period 2008–2018, examined sufficiency monthly consumption per capita 2380 itineraries (areas with an average population 700) relation to a residential classification, age also rationing by type. Water differed itinerary. Compared residents low-income those high- middle-income areas were six four times more likely receive recommended 1500 L month respectively. Newer neighbourhoods less densely populated higher volumes water. Non-revenue loss accounted 29% (average 3.5 billion litres month) distributed across was than two amount needed all access consumption. The observed spatial inequality distribution, associated status highlights need deliberate planning governance improve match speed growth low/middle- enhance equity.