Challenges Of Urban Infrastructure Service Provision: A Case Of Ambo Town, West Showa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

Abstract

Infrastructure service provision is a cornerstone of sustainable urban development, directly affecting the quality of life and socio-economic opportunities of urban residents. This study aims to investigate the Challenges of Urban Infrastructure Service Provision: The Case of Ambo Town. The research employed a mixed-methods approach. More specifically, the quantitative approach utilized a descriptive research design, which aimed to systematically assess the current state of infrastructure service challenges and qualitative approach applied a narrative research design, which enabled the researcher to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences and perceptions of residents regarding infrastructure service delivery. The target population comprised households reside in Ambo Town, key informants, and community representatives. The study employed a mixed sampling approach involving both purposive sampling to select representative kebeles and stratified sampling to select proportionally a sample unit from each selected kebeles. From this population, a sample of 383 households was selected using stratified random sampling, ensuring proportional representation from different kebeles. Additionally, purposive sampling was used to select 20 key informants for in-depth interviews. Primary data were collected through household surveys, and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were interpreted through thematic analysis. The study found that the overall water supply, electric and road network Infrastructure service provision inadequate and constrained by a combination of factors, including inadequate financial resources, poor institutional coordination, limited technical capacity, and unregulated urban expansion. Furthermore, gaps in community engagement and policy enforcement were found to exacerbate service delivery failures. This study recommends strategic interventions including improved institutional coordination, sustainable financing mechanisms, inclusive urban planning practices, and capacity development to address the prevailing challenges and enhance service provision in Ambo Town.