Barriers and opportunities for management of shared sanitation facilities in low-income settlements in Kenya

Abstract

Background: Sharing of sanitation is commonly being practiced in low income areas in Sub Saharan Africa. However, the Joint Monitoring Program (JMP) categorizes shared sanitation as a limited sanitation service. These shared facilities are often the only option available for most of the residents in low income settlements, and improving their management is key to reducing open defecation and risk of disease. This study sought to investigate barriers and opportunities for improved management of shared sanitation in low income settlements of Kisumu in Kenya. Methods: Thirty-nine In-depth interviews and 11 focus group discussions were held with residents, who mainly included tenants and landlords. Analysis followed a thematic approach to define the problem, specify the target behaviour and define what needs to change. Results: Pit latrines were commonly shared among landlords and tenants. Shared sanitation facilities were unclean due to poor use and lack of cleaning. Participants identified behavioural challenges such as poor use of the shared toilets, and social challenges such as lack of cooperation in cleaning. These results led to identification of opportunities for improvement such as instituting clear cleaning plans, communication among users, and problem solving mechanisms between landlords and tenants. These approaches could form the basis for designing intervention strategies for improving the management of shared sanitation. Conclusion: The results highlight the need to focus on social aspects for improvement of shared sanitation management in low income settlements. Through a social approach, shared sanitation facilities can be managed appropriately to afford the millions of low income dwellers an opportunity to access sanitation. This study provides further evidence on approaches for improved management of shared sanitation facilities in line with the JMP’s recommendation for high quality shared facilities.