Public participation and sustainability of foreign-funded water projects in South Sudan. A cross-sectional case study of the Juba town block urban water supply project.

Abstract

Background.

Public participation is widely recognized as a key factor in ensuring the sustainability of foreign-funded water projects. This study examined the relationship between public participation in project planning, implementation, and monitoring, and the sustainability of water sources in Juba Town Block.

 Methodology.

A cross-sectional study design was adopted, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Respondents, including community members, water board officials, and technical staff, were purposively and randomly selected. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and observation checklists. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed.

 Results.

The study found that 66% of respondents were male, and the majority were aged 26–30 years. Spring wells were the most common water source (50%). Results indicated that water sources were generally functional (70%) and effectively used (76%), but faced challenges such as inadequate equipment, limited accountability, and insufficient public involvement in work plans and budgeting. Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive relationship between public participation and sustainability: planning (r = 0.539, p < 0.01), implementation (r = 0.595, p < 0.01), and monitoring (r = 0.764, p < 0.01). Regression analysis further showed that participation in monitoring (Beta = 0.730, p < 0.001) was the strongest predictor of sustainability, while planning and implementation were not significant predictors.

 Conclusion:

Public participation, particularly in monitoring, is critical for ensuring the sustainability of water sources. Limited involvement in planning and implementation hinders project effectiveness and responsiveness to community needs.

 Recommendations:

Efforts should focus on enhancing public engagement in monitoring and evaluation activities, ensuring transparent accountability mechanisms, and providing sufficient equipment and resources to support community participation, thereby improving the long-term sustainability of water projects in Juba Town Block.