Author(s)

Z. COELLO-BALTHASAR & B. BALFORS

Abstract

The capital of Honduras, Tegucigalpa, has suffered a shortage of piped water, since the 1980s. The national utility company in charge of supply, SANAA, opted to supply water intermittently, which poses a problem for the population who cannot afford water storage facilities. Interviews were conducted with the various authorities involved in the water sector to reveal why SANAA has not been able to incorporate new sources of water and therefore satisfy the needs of the growing population. The research revealed that SANAA’s operations have been hindered by the fast and unorganized growth of the city, the failure of other governmental agencies to comply with their mission efficiently, and also by the intervention of the Central Government in its operations. Stability of SANAA’s management and coordination between governmental agencies are essential for the effi cient operation and long-term planning of and investment in the water sector.

Keywords

Honduras, intermittent water supply, patronage, SANAA, Tegucigalpa, water utility.