Effect of Dadin-kowa dam on rural development in Yamaltu Deba Local Government Area of Gombe State

Abstract

Water is central to both global population and the expanding economic activities. The increasing need for water and without the corresponding increase of its sources lead to its depletion which causes severe scarcity thereby compelling people to look for alternative sources, the consequence of which is the construction of Dams. While these dams create opportunities to people, they also pose some environmental and socio-economic problems to human population in communities where they are constructed. This study assesses the effect of Dadin Kowa dam on rural development in Yamaltu Deba Local Government Area (LGA) of Gombe State. Predicated on the popular Ecological modernization theory, the study generated data through questionnaires administered to 399 respondents which was corroborated with data from secondary sources. The study reveals that Dadin Kowa Dam has brought forward difficulties due to constant flooding in some communities during heavy downpour which in some cases washed away farmlands and caused displacement of the population, coupled with outbreak of diseases. The Dam is therefore seen to have had overriding negative impact on rural development in Yamaltu-Deba LGA. Accordingly, the study recommends that government should complete the building of canals and hydroelectric generation for the benefits of the people. Also Government should provide a comprehensive social impact assessment with the view to understanding and reduce to the barest minimum the hardship encountered by the communities through proper payment of compensation and giving out relief materials.