Determinants of Household Willingness to Pay for Improved Water Supply: A Case Study of Baringo and Samburu Counties, Kenya

Abstract

Background: In Sub-Saharan Africa, the supply of affordable, accessible and safe drinking water particularly in rural areas lags behind global progress. Achieving the universal and equitable access objectives warrants an understanding of household behavior in relation to water services.

Purpose of the study: The aim of the study was to investigate the factors that influence willingness to pay for improved water service provision in a rural context in Kenya.

Methods: A total of 601 households in Baringo and Samburu Counties were randomly selected using probability proportional to size technique. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and logit regression.

Results: The empirical result shows that demographic characteristics of household, water source, quality and quantity, children responsible for fetching water, water access challenges and frequency of diarrhea are significant variables that explain willingness to pay.

Conclusion: The findings conclude with important policy recommendations; (i) demand-driven approaches in the design of water supply projects, (ii) enhanced water quality management, and (iii) awareness creation to achieve social and health benefits which can facilitate long-term access and sustainability.