Stakeholders’ Training Initiatives by Neo-Pentecostal Churches can Alleviate Domestic Water Scarcity in Tigania West Constituency

Abstract

Church teachings and doctrines are expected to be all-inclusive. Therefore, Neo-Pentecostal Churches (NPCs) in Tigania West should incorporate water stakeholder training into their spiritual and community responsibilities. By partnering with NGOs, Bible schools, and technical institutions, NPCs can equip leaders with skills in sustainable water management to address domestic water scarcity, improve access, reduce diseases, and enhance livelihoods. This study explored the training initiatives for water stakeholders by Neo-Pentecostal churches on alleviation of domestic water scarcity in Tigania West constituency, where 97% of the population faces severe water challenges. Despite biblical mandates in Matthew 28:20 and Ezekiel 34:17-19, which call for addressing both spiritual and practical needs, NPCs however perceive water stakeholder training as outside their biblical mandate. This narrow focus on spiritual matters highlights a gap in their involvement in addressing water scarcity menace. Using the Theological Reflection Theory, the study adopted a qualitative approach and phenomenological research design. It targeted 22 registered NPCs in Tigania West, with a sample of 59 participants who were sampled using cluster sampling technique. Respondents were pastors and church members. Data was collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis, with pre-testing ensuring validity and reliability. Thematic analysis technique was applied to analyze the collected data. Findings revealed that NPCs lacked formal water management training programs, although some churches expressed interest in vocational initiatives like rainwater harvesting and infrastructure development.  The study concluded that NPCs’ limited engagement with water scarcity represents a missed opportunity to align spiritual teachings with community development. The study recommends collaboration of NPCs, Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs), NGOs, and Bible schools, with technical institutions in organizing workshops, seminars, and other capacity-building initiatives regarding water management and access. These initiatives would provide practical knowledge on water catchment protection, rainwater harvesting, and infrastructure development, thus enhancing NPCs' role in bridging faith and social responsibility.