Water insecurity and inequalities in access to safe drinking water in the municipality of Zagnanado (Benin)

Equal access to safe drinking water still poses a major challenge for public health and sustainable development in sub-Saharan Africa, where regional inequalities and inadequate infrastructure heighten communities’ vulnerability. This study examines water insecurity and inequalities in access to safe drinking water in the municipality of Zagnanado, in central Benin, through an integrated approach based on exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity.

The methodology relies on a mixed-methods approach combining an inventory of water and sanitation infrastructures, a household survey conducted among 250 households across all administrative districts, as well as semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Statistical and spatial analyses were applied to identify territorial disparities and key drivers of hydric vulnerability.

Findings show significant household dependence on unprotected water sources, used by nearly 70% of the population, as well as marked infrastructure failure, with over 40% out of service and very limited coverage of village water supply systems. Long distances to water sources, low rates of domestic treatment, and inadequate sanitation services increase exposure to health risks, mainly for women and children.

This study highlights structural water vulnerability resulting from technical, institutional, and social factors. It emphasizes the need for an inclusive approach involving infrastructure rehabilitation, enhanced maintenance and local governance, and the promotion of domestic water treatment, in order to sustainably reduce inequalities in access to drinking water in the municipality of Zagnanado.