Assessing the Vulnerability of Communities to Climate Change-Induced Water Scarcity and Health Risks

Abstract This study aimed to assess the vulnerability of communities in the Gelana District to climate change-induced water scarcity and health risks. Climate change has been identified as a significant driver of water scarcity, posing challenges to communities that rely on limited water resources for various purposes, including drinking, sanitation, and agriculture. The research design involved a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data collection and analysis with qualitative methods. Based on primary and secondary evidence, communities vulnerable to climate change-induced water scarcity and health risks were divided into three categories: exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capability. Deforestation and degradation 86 (43.2%), changes in land use and land cover 45 (21.6%), insufficient management of water resources 34 (17.1%), low soil fertility, and the absence of a sustainable farming system 12 (6%) were found to be significant contributors to the research area's climate change-induced water scarcity and health risks. The effects of climate change-related water scarcity on the chosen kebeles resulted in 117 (58.8%) water stress, 88 (44.2%) limited capacity for adaptation, and 98 (49.2%) high exposure. Due to the effects of climate change, such as flash floods, unpredictable river floods, and drought at specific kebeles in the Gelana area, the incidence of diseases such as malaria/fever (81.9%), cough (18.6%), diarrhea (11.6%), measles (1.5%), and other (4%) diseases has increased. The primary effective adaptation options for the water scarcity and health concerns caused by climate change were groundwater utilization (19.6%) and rainwater gathering. The results of this study can aid in building community capacity in the face of climate change, improving the ability of vulnerable groups to adapt, and increasing community awareness of how to employ contemporary water and health technologies.