Exploring water-gender-health nexus in human settlements in Hopley, Harare

Abstract

The study uses the case of Hopley, Harare, to reflect on the challenges of accessing water in the area and how this affects women and children regarding gender inequality. We argue that there is an intricate interplay between water, gender and public health as water takes on a gendered dimension. Through the lens of the Moser gender analytical framework and social justice theory, we analyse the interplay of water-gender health by examining gender roles and implications of water use and access and public health. This interplay is critical as it provides research and policy insights for enhancing the liveability of human settlements. A mixed method research design is adopted through which data is collected from both primary and secondary data sources. The findings reveal that water quantity and quality scarcity is prevalent in Hopley. This scarcity disadvantages women and girls are responsible for household water tasks. Subsequently, beyond the water-bone diseases, women and girls are more vulnerable to emotional, physical, and psychological stress associated with accessing water. We conclude that the gendered roles and perceptions rooted in patriarchal societal values and norms perpetuate social injustices among women and girls presenting an unescapable interconnectedness of water-gender-health.