Corruption and Water Services Delivery in Jowhar, Somalia
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Date
2024
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Abstract
The study investigated the effects of corruption on water services delivery in Jowhar Somalia. The objectives of this study were: to establish the effects of administrative corruption on water service delivery in Jowhar Somalia, to ascertain the effects of procurement corruption on water service delivery in Jowhar Somalia, and to evaluate the effects of extortion corruption on waterservice delivery in Jowhar Somalia. This research was guided by both Economic Theory and Principal-Agency theory, employing a descriptive research design. The target population consisted of 593 individuals, from which a sample of 293 respondents was determined using the Cochran Equation. Data collection methods encompassed questionnaire surveys, interviews, and document reviews, allowing for a comprehensive dataset. Analysis was conducted utilizing SPSS software version 18.0. Results indicated that water workers allocate funds for personal expenses and utilize public water facilities for personal use, underscoring broader factors influencing corruption across sectors, with the water sector being particularly susceptible. Additionally, it was found that procurement departments lack scrutiny in awarding contracts, and there is evidence of water workers engaging in illicit deals, highlighting systemic vulnerabilities. The predictor variables accounted for a minimum of 34.6% of the variability in water service delivery (Adjusted R Square = .346). The findings further reveal that extortion corruption (Beta = .295, Sig. = .000) emerged as the most significant predictor, followed by procurement corruption (Beta = .279, Sig. = .000), with administrative corruption (Beta = -.144, Sig. = .003) exhibiting a lesser predictive capacity. These determinants underscore the intricate nature of the water sector, characterized by various factors that heighten the likelihood of corruption. These include the presence of largescale construction and monopolies, extensive public sector involvement, technical complexities leading to reduced transparency, heightened demand for water services fostering supplier dominance and bribery, as well as frequent interactions between suppliers and consumers nurturing an environment conducive to discretionary practices. The study concluded that corruption significantly impedes effective public service delivery, given the pivotal role of the Public Service in implementing government policies and programs essential for societal welfare. Recommendations include enhancing systems and structures to mitigate corruption, particularly in the water supply and sanitation sector of Jowhar Town. It is advised that the Town water supply and sanitation office take proactive measures to curb corruption and ensure efficient service delivery. Moreover, involving customers in decision making processes and project planning can foster transparency and accountability, ultimately benefiting the community.