Organization and Community Management of Water for Domestic Use in a Rural Community in Nicaragua

This work aims to analyze the experience of a Nicaraguan rural community in the management of water for domestic use through the conformation of community committees, and the relationships that such committees have with the government and other relevant organizations. The research is conducted through the qualitative paradigm of social sciences; hence, the methodology is based on a case study where empirical data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and participant observation. The community organization for local management has emerged in order to meet a specific need; in this case, the water supply for domestic use. According to the collective action theory, this work demonstrates that the internal rules and regulations have favored the economic sustainability, the empowerment and the active participation of the community organization in order to obtain autonomy in the management of its resources. This research is important for it shows that the state’s recognition of the community organizations has favored the cooperative effort between communities, government and non-governmental organizations, facilitating the management process and the access to financial, technical and training resources.