BLUE ECONOMY ACTIVITIES AND LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION AMONG FISHERS IN BRASS ISLAND IN BAYELSA STATE

Abstract

This study examined household water insecurity and associated health outcomes in flood-prone communities of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, with 384 respondents selected from Yenagoa, Brass, Nembe, and Amassoma using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using the Household Water Insecurity and Health Outcomes Questionnaire (HWIHQQ), with a reliability coefficient of 0.82. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses (t-test and ANOVA) were employed at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed significant seasonal variation in water insecurity, with greater challenges during the flood season. Households adopted coping strategies such as water treatment and reliance on alternative sources, though these were associated with increased stress   and reduced well-being. Flooding significantly degraded water quality and increased the prevalence of water-related illness. Access   to   functional   water  infrastructure was  found to significantly reduce  household vulnerability. The study concludes that seasonal flooding is a key driver of water insecurity and health risks and recommends the provision of flood-resilient water systems and improved water infrastructure.