TITLE:
Socio-Economic Analysis of Smallholder Water User’s Participation on Water Resources Management in Tanzania: A Double Hurdle Analysis
AUTHORS:
Paulo Shaban Omary, Christina Mwivei Shitima
KEYWORDS:
Participation, Water Resource Management, Smallholder Water Users, Double Hurdle Model, Econometric Analysis
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.13 No.2,
February
28,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: Community participation in water resources management is one of the important areas that need emphasis on the implementation of National Water Policy. Despite various initiatives, the situation is still alarming. Objective: This study is intended to assess the factors affecting smallholder water user’s participation and the extent of participation in water resources management in Tanzania. Methodology: A quantitative, cross-sectional study was employed to assess all the selected 397 smallholder water users in Mvomero district (particularly Mlali & Dakawa wards). The study employed the probability sampling through the use of questionnaires to collect data. However, the study used both descriptive and econometric analysis. The researcher employed a double hurdle model to analyze the factors affecting smallholder water user’s participation and the extent of participation in water resources management. Results: The results of the study indicated that the participation in water resources management was influenced by age, marital status, primary occupation, involvement in more than one activity, household size, awareness, water resources management actors and land size, while the extent was influenced by education level, primary occupation, household size, awareness and decision making. Conclusions: The study suggested that the government should emphasize the water resources management by supporting mass education, information provision, proper land distribution system. Additionally, more emphasis should be placed on managing the resources wisely to alleviate poverty.