Drinking Water Network Users’ Associations and the sustainability of community-managed systems in the town of Kindu

Abstract

Access to drinking water remains a major problem in the DRC, particularly in secondary towns such as Kindu, where REGIDESO does not serve the entire population. Drinking Water Network Users’ Associations (ASUREP) provide a grassroots solution by ensuring water distribution through community mini-water networks installed in certain neighbourhoods of the town, as well as their maintenance and the collection of revenue from water sales. The study examined the sustainability of four ASUREPs in Kindu (RVA, Big Five, Kabasoga/Airport and Basoko), based on surveys of 150 households and 20 association leaders.

The results reveal contrasting situations. RVA and Basoko offer more satisfactory technical continuity, whilst Kabasoga/Airport and Big Five suffer frequent interruptions. Financially, RVA and Big Five have more robust cash flow and publish their balance sheets, whereas the other two do not. Community participation is strong overall, but issues of representativeness undermine Kabasoga/Aéroport and Basoko.

Sustainability rests on three pillars: technical performance, financial stability and inclusive social participation. ASUREPs that combine these dimensions, such as RVA, prove to be more resilient. The study recommends strengthening training for managers, improving transparency and providing institutional support to these associations to consolidate their role in participatory water governance in the DRC.

Keywords: Access to drinking water, Drinking Water Network Users’ Associations, Sustainability, Community governance, Resilience, Kindu.

Received Date: June 19, 2026

Accepted Date: July 10, 2026

Published Date: August 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/909