Drivers of limited access to water and sanitation (WASH) services in Kyamulibwa sub-county, Kalungu district

Abstract

Introduction: Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services have long been recognized as important determinants of. Inadequate WASH is one of the primary risk factors for diarrheal disease, a leading cause of mortality and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) worldwide. This research established the drivers of limited access to water and sanitation (WASH) services in Kyamulibwa sub-county, Kalungu District. The study objectives were: to examine the drivers of access to water and sanitation (WASH) services, and assess the barriers to water and sanitation (WASH) services in Kyamulibwa. Methodology: The study adopted a mixed method design with both qualitative and quantitative methods were used in this study. The study utilized a sample of 50 respondents and 10 local leaders of Kyamulibwa sub-county. Data was collected using questionnaires and key informant interviews guides. Data was analysed using SPSS and the results are presented in terms of (frequencies and percentages using tables and graphs). Content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data collected using key informant interviews. Findings: Household income levels are a key driver of the level of access to WASH services in the community. In this case wealthy families have access to clean and safe water as well as well-ventilated pit latrines, among other WASH services as compared to poor households. Majority of the population (85%) expressed average knowledge about sanitation and hygiene and other WASH services. The key barriers to access of WASH services included; the topography of the area, the level of household income, distance to the nearest water point, and level of knowledge of the potential users of these services. Conclusion: The study concluded that there are several barriers to accessibility of WASH services and these go beyond topography of the area, income levels, level of knowledge on the WASH services, and level of responsiveness of the general public. Recommendations: It is important for the government or community leaders to engage in different awareness creation programs aimed at improving knowledge of the general public about WASH its self as a term and the different WASH services and how they can be accessed or implemented in homes.