Factors influencing the wash practices adoption among residents of Dadajabulla ward, Wajir south constituency, Kenya

Abstract

In the context of Dadajabulla Ward, Wajir South Constituency, a region characterized by water scarcity, frequent severe weather conditions, and socio-economic challenges, the adoption and sustained use of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) practices are crucial for enhancing public health and socio-economic development. However, despite the critical need, the implementation of effective WASH practices remains inadequate. There is a significant lack of localized data that considers the unique socio-economic, cultural, and environmental characteristics of specific regions like Dadajabulla Ward, hindering targeted interventions. The current study aims to bridge this gap by investigating the particular local factors that influence WASH practice adoption in the region. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study with a mixed-methods approach with a sample respondents of 368. This study employed multistage sampling incorporating both purposive and systematic random sampling. Primary data was gathered using interviewing of the key informants and structured questionnaires. The data collected was analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics involving chi-square, and logistic regression. In 53.3% of the families, the overall WASH practices were found to be extremely inadequate. The majority of respondents (41.9%) said that the bad state of WASH was caused by strong cultural and traditional practices. Given its higher variability (M=2.09, SD=1.38, Weighted Score=1003.2) and ranking first in relation to other components, it was clear that cultural practices were having a greater impact than the other categories. A statistically significant correlation (χ2=8.255, df=1,p=0.004) was found between the water source and the WASH habits. In addition, a statistically significant relationship between WASH practices and household size was found using a chi-square test for independence (χ2=12.287, df=1,p=0.002). Further, it was shown that cultural limitations such as adherence to traditional and myth-based norms and satisfaction with them are impeding WASH activities. The study's findings also showed that every socioeconomic element has a major impact on the kind of sanitary facilities that homes in the ward use. The research unveiled nuanced insights that informs policy and intervention strategies. this study meaningfully contributed to the advancement of knowledge and the improvement of WASH practices adoption among the Dadajabulla Ward residents and communities in similar setups.