Environmental health implications of water scarcity in Beitbridge Town, Matebeleland South Province, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Water scarcity is a critical environmental health issue. Its shortage results in deterioration of health and sanitation, particularly domestic water which is a fundamental basic for daily living. This study was focused on assessing the extent to which water scarcity at household level and the associated environmental health impacts on people in Beitbridge town of Zimbabwe. Empirical evidence was gathered using the questionnaire survey method targeting three residential sites of the town. Questionnaires were administered to a sample of households. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyse the data. A relationship was drawn between water scarcity and environmental health implications using the binary logistic regression model. The study's results provide compelling scientific information that will act as a guideline on the extent to which water supply affects people's health.