Abstract

The study assessed the practice of rain water harvesting (RWH) in a rural community in Edo state, Nigeria. Using a cross sectional study design, pre-tested structured interviewer administered questionnaire were administered to 232 selected and consenting households. A structured observational checklist was used for assessment of household rainwater harvesting system. Water was collected from 15% of houses and tested for bacteriological quality. Data was analysed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 16. Results were presented as frequencies, with statistical test applied where appropriate. Findings showed that RWH was practiced by over 80% of households, with the roof top as the catchment area. Stored water was most commonly used for personal hygiene purposes. Majority of the 30 water samples tested had unacceptable levels of total coliform, while one sample had Escherichia coli. Health education should focus on enlightening households on appropriate design and maintenance of RWH systems.

Key words: Assessment, harvesting, rainwater, rural.