Community-Based Development of Household Water Management for Consumption and Domestic Use in Ban Huay Hoi, Muang Ngoi District, Luang Prabang Province

Abstract

This research article aimed to 1) examine the context and problems of household water management for consumption and domestic use in Ban Huay Hoi community, Muang Ngoi District, Luang Prabang Province; 2) develop a participatory approach to household water management within the community; and 3) propose guidelines for sustainable water management through community participation. The study employed qualitative and participatory action research methods. Data were collected through field surveys, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, observations, and documentary analysis. Key informants were purposively selected and consisted of 20 participants, including community leaders, water management experts, Buddhist monks, local residents, and government officials. Data were analyzed using content analysis and interpretative analysis.

The findings revealed that: 1) Ban Huay Hoi community has long depended on natural water resources for household consumption, agriculture, and local livelihoods. However, the community faces major challenges related to water accessibility, water quality, inadequate sanitation knowledge, environmental degradation, and the impacts of climate change, which have negatively affected public health and quality of life. 2) The development of community water management reflected a participatory learning process that integrated local wisdom with appropriate technologies. Community members collaboratively analyzed problems, designed activities, and implemented low-cost water filtration systems using local materials such as gravel, sand, and biochar. This process strengthened self-reliance, collective responsibility, and sustainable community-based water management. 3) Sustainable water management requires continuous community participation and integrated cooperation among local stakeholders and external networks. The proposed development approach consisted of five key dimensions: community participation, infrastructure development, knowledge enhancement, participatory monitoring systems, and collaborative networking. These dimensions contributed to the establishment of an effective and context-appropriate water management system. The new knowledge derived from this study demonstrates that sustainable household water management in rural communities should emphasize participatory processes, the integration of local wisdom with appropriate technology, and community empowerment in order to achieve long-term sustainability and improve quality of life.