Assessing characteristics of pit latrine designs in Mulago III Parish, Kampala

Abstract

This report investigates the design characteristics, state, performance and compliance levels of constructed pit latrines in Mulago III Parish, Kampala design standards and technical guidelines, aiming to propose design improvements for better sanitation. The study addresses a critical urban sanitation issue prevalent in informal settlements of sub-Saharan Africa, where inadequate sanitation facilities contribute significantly to public health risks and environmental hazards. The research was conducted on 115 pit latrines in the five zones of Mulago III using a mixed-methods approach, combining household interviews, structured observations, and measurements to collect data on the construction materials and methods, operation and maintenance practices, and design features. The information from the field observations, measurements and responses were recorded using the mwater application and analysed using Microsoft Excel version 2016. The study found several key issues with constructed pit latrines, including the use of hazardous construction materials, inadequate pit lining, poor ventilation systems, and lack of access to emptying. It was also discovered that most pit latrines were shared by an average of 8.3 households many of which had hygiene maintenance problems, increasing health risks. As a result, many latrines were abandoned, and cost-cutting measures such as flooding out were adopted. To address these challenges, the report recommends specific design improvements tailored to the local context, emphasising the need for durable materials, proper ventilation, provision of an access manhole, and improved operation and maintenance practices. These recommendations aim to enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of pit latrines, ultimately contributing to improved public health and environmental conditions in urban informal settlements.