Abstract:
This study investigates the distribution of social infrastructure, including public primary schools (PPSs) and primary health care facilities (PHCs), in Zuru local government of Kebbi State, with a focus on identifying inadequacy and spatial inequality. Both primary and secondary data were utilized for the analysis, covering six wards: Bedi, Tadurga, Dabai, Rikoto, Rafin Zuru, and Manga Ushe.
To assess the distribution pattern, graphical and spatial analyses were performed using ArcGIS 10.1 and Qgis. The locations of 14 PHCs and 26 PPSs were identified through GPS data. The analysis revealed a dispersed spatial distribution pattern for both PPSs and PHCs, indicating that the facilities might not be allocated based on a predetermined distance criterion.
Service areas for each facility were established using Euclidean and road network methods in G.I.S to identify adequately and inadequately serviced areas. The findings indicated that some households within Bedi, Tadurga, and Manga Ushe were located outside the catchment areas of PHCs and/or PPSs.
Non-spatial data, including ward population, land area, and the count of PPSs and PHCs, were utilized to determine spatial inequality and inadequacy using the Local Quotient. The results showed that Tadurga ward exhibited the highest deprivation with an L.Q less than 1.0, indicating inadequate allocation of existing social infrastructure.
Furthermore, a multiple model regression analysis revealed no statistically significant relationship between the population of wards and the number of existing social infrastructure. This suggests that a spatial criterion should be employed for the allocation of social infrastructure in the area.
In conclusion, the study highlights the need to strategically provide new facilities in deprived wards to ensure adequate social infrastructure within Zuru local government. By using spatial criteria for allocation, community wellbeing, cohesion, and development can be enhanced, promoting a more equitable distribution of essential services.
Examining the Spatial Distribution of Selected Social Infrastructure in Zuru Local Government, Kebbi State. GET MORE, ACTUARIAL SCIENCE PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALS
