Water quality data for decision making

Water quality testing is critical for ensuring public health. However, water quality testing is not an end in and of itself: data collection activities should guide the management of water service delivery. The Aquaya Institute’s previous research shows that regulated monitoring institutions in sub-Saharan Africa often respond to water quality test results that indicate contaminated water supplies. Nevertheless, there are substantial opportunities to improve the use of water quality data to inform water safety management in the region.

This study examines how water quality data is used by 26 regulated monitoring agencies across six African countries, with an in-depth focus on key stakeholders and policies in Kenya. Specifically, this research maps information flows to evaluate trends, connections, and barriers to the flow of information within and between institutions at local, regional, and national levels. Based on this analysis, this research will develop strategies for strengthening data flows and data analysis to better inform decision-making that improves water safety and security.

This project is funded through our Partnership Funding.

Publications

Aquaya (2020). From data to decisions: Water quality monitoring programs in sub-Saharan Africa, Research brief.

Aquaya (2020). From data to decisions: Water quality monitoring programs in Kenya, Research brief.

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December 2018 – August 2019

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Kenya

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The Aquaya Institute

‘Our partnership with REACH recognises science has a critical role in designing and delivering effective policy and improving practice on the ground.’

KELLY ANN NAYLOR, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, WATER, SANITATION AND HYGIENE (WASH) SECTION, PROGRAMME DIVISION, UNICEF

'Access to water is a defining challenge for the 21st century. The UK has already helped 43 million people to access clean water, but there is far more to be done.'

UK DEPARTMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PARLIAMENTARY UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE

‘We’re excited about the potential of these Catalyst Projects to contribute to novel science and deliver significant water security improvements for poor people in Africa and South Asia.’

Rosanna Bartlett, REACH Partnership Funding Manager