Examination of the Socio-Economic Significance of River Galma on the Surrounding Communities Case Study of Sabon Gari Local Government Area Kaduna State

ABSTRACT
The study examine the socio-economic significance of river galma on the surrounding communities a case study of Sabon Gari Local Government area Kaduna State, delves into the intricate web of the socio-economic significance of River Galma on the communities in its vicinity,particularly how it influences the livelihoods and well-being of the local population in Zaria,Sabon Gari local Government Area of Kaduna State. Employing a mixed-methods approach,which combines quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews,this research has striven to shed light on the multifaceted relationship between River Galma and the lives of the people who depend on it.The socio-economic significance of this river has been examined through the administration of 400 questionnaires and subsequent analysis.This paper aims to elucidate the key findings and implications of this study.A mixed-methods approach was adopted to provide a holistic view of the subject matter.Additionally,qualitative interviews were conducted to provide deeper insights and a nuanced perspective on the subject.The research found that 76% of the surveyed individuals acknowledged the presence of alternative water sources.From this subset,59% identified boreholes as a primary alternative source.However,one significant factor influencing this choice was the distance from their homes to these alternative sources.Due to the proximity of River Galma,75% of the respondents continued to use it as their primary source of water.The study revealed that 59% of the respondents use River Galma water on a daily basis,and many of them access it multiple times a day (approximately 4-6 times).This suggests that the river is not only a secondary water source but a primary,frequently utilized one.Approximately 30% of the people in the surrounding communities use water from River Galma for cooking.This signifies the integral role the river plays in the domestic lives of the local population.The findings of this study underscore the paramount importance of River Galma to the communities in its vicinity.Despite the awareness of alternative water sources,the proximity and convenience of River Galma make it the primary choice for the majority of the local population.This is especially evident in the high frequency of daily use and the fact that a significant portion of the community relies on it for cooking.