Utilization of latrine and associated factors among rural community in Marakwet east sub county, Elgeyo Marakwet county, Kenya

Abstract

A study on sanitation practices is an important contribution to the understanding of public health issues related to sanitation in rural areas. In Kenya, most diarrhoeal diseases in children are as result of poor utilization of latrine. This study highlights key factors that influence the use of latrines, such as household size, education level, and the type of latrine available. These insights are crucial for designing effective public health interventions. This research aimed to assess factors that played a role in influencing latrine utilization among people residing in the rural areas of Marakwet East Sub County, Elgeyo Marakwet, Kenya. The study objectives included determining the level of utilization on latrine, determining cultural and socio-demographic factors that influence latrine utilization and latrine designs associated with utilization of latrine. A community-based cross-sectional descriptive study was employed as well as quantitative data collection methods with the assistance of an observational checklist and questionnaire in the month of December 2023. The sample entailed 423 households in Marakwet East. Purposive sampling was used to select Marakwet East due to high number of diarrheal cases compared to other three sub counties. Moreover, random sampling was chosen as it allows making generalization on a specific population without bias. Collection of data was through a pretested standardized questionnaire. To find any statistical correlation between the latrine utilization and study variables, the chi square test was conducted. Logistic regression was done to determine the effects of variables on utilization of latrine among the respondents. On level of latrine in Marakwet east the study findings indicated 26% non-utilization. Based on the multivariable analysis, it was observed that households that had 1 to 3 persons, the level of education attained by the respondent, years passed since the latrine was constructed and the frequency of cleaning the toilet has a significant correlation with the latrine utilization. Cumulatively, Logistic regression model on socio demographic factors explained 41.2% of variation on latrine utilization. Chi square played a role in determining the existing relationship between culture and latrine utilization from the respondents. The Chi square test returned a significant result (X2=42, df= 1, P= <0.001). The latrines under usage did not meet the structural requirements hence all the element of latrine designs influenced utilization of the latrines. Cumulatively, toilet design explained 93.6% of utilization on toilets by the respondents. The study concluded that latrine utilization is influenced by various variables. The study recommends multi-sectorial approach in designing and implementing community led total sanitation-policy as the most ideal method to reduce OD and improve on latrine utilization. The ministry of health to develop health promotion messages on social behavior change communication to create awareness and help address the cultural misconceptions associated with utilization of latrine. Moreover, the government to engage the community in coming up with a cost-effective latrine design and culture-abiding ways that nurture latrine ownership and sustainability.