Factors Contributing to the Consumption of Unsafe Drinking Water in Liberia: A Case Study of Stephen A. Tolbert Estate, Monrovia.

Abstract

Introduction: About 70% of the population of Liberia do not have access to safe and managed drinking water. In Monrovia, exposed wells and poor sanitation systems often lead to the contamination of groundwater.
Objectives: To examine the factors contributing to the consumption of unsafe drinking water in the Stephen A. Tolbert Estate.
Methodology: We used the quantitative research design. We decided to use this design because of its ability to generalize findings based on its larger population sample size. The researcher uses the stratified probability sampling technique; using the Taro Yamane sample formula, the total sample size (n) for the research was equivalent to 120 from a population of 500. The studied population comprises household residents residing within Stephen Tolbert Estate. This technique positions everyone with an equal chance of being selected for the research.
Finding: The vast majority of households rely on well and tap water sources that are highly vulnerable to local contamination. There were a total of one hundred and twenty households (120) participants. Most respondents were within the 18-45 age range, representing the economically active population. 43.3% of the respondents constituted the male population, while 55% constituted the female population. However, two people decided not to mention their sex. The research results show 76.70% of the respondents have little or no awareness of local water safety initiatives.
Recommendation: To ensure water quality safety, regular testing of drinking water sources should be done by relevant agencies and authorities. Additionally, community health workers should design and redirect their awareness strategies to educate the citizens on home treatment of drinking water.