Social structures, cultural norms and water use practices of Lake Ahémé in the commune of Kpomassè in Benin

Access to and use of water in communities living near natural water bodies are not determined solely by technical or environmental constraints; they are also embedded in specific social and cultural dynamics. This article analyzes the sociocultural determinants of water-use practices related to Lake Ahémé among riparian communities in the municipality of Kpomassè, located in southwestern Benin. The objective is to understand how social structures, cultural norms, and collective representations influence the ways in which this water resource is used.

The study adopts a socio-anthropological approach combining field observations, semi-structured interviews, and an analysis of everyday practices related to water use. The findings show that the use of Lake Ahémé’s water is strongly shaped by the sociocultural composition of the riparian communities, particularly the predominance of the Xwla ethnic group, as well as by social norms and beliefs associated with the lacustrine environment. Water-use practices are also characterized by a social division of labor, in which women and young unmarried men play a central role in water collection and domestic use.

Furthermore, the results highlight the coexistence of multiple water supply sources, reflecting a hybridization of practices between natural water resources and modern water infrastructure. The choice of water sources is influenced by a combination of economic, practical, and symbolic factors. The study therefore underscores the importance of integrating sociocultural dimensions into public water management policies in order to promote water access strategies that are better adapted to local realities.