Improving the Quality of shared Sanitary through Reward Scheme in Low-Income Urban Settlements in Ga Central Municipality Accra Ghana.

Abstract

Sanitation facilities in low-income settlements often face significant challenges related to maintenance, cleanliness, and accessibility. Shared sanitation facilities are particularly prevalent in these areas, raising concerns about hygiene practices. This study aimed to determine the quality of shared sanitation facilities and effectiveness of a reward scheme in promoting low-income settlement better sanitation outcomes. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving both qualitative and quantitative. Surveys, observation checklists and key informant interviews with environmental health officers in the Ga Central Municipality (Ablekuma and Anyaa). A sample of 100 households was chosen, with 50 households participating in a reward scheme and 50 households serving as a control group. Households were selected based on their sanitation facility types, cleaning arrangements, and maintenance practices. The majority of respondents used pour-flush toilets to pit latrines (30%), traditional pit latrines with concrete slabs (18%), and ventilated improved pits (15%). 97% of toilet facilities were located within the compound, ensuring convenient access. Facilities with rewards exhibited significantly better hygiene outcomes compared to those without rewards. Specifically, rewarded facilities had lower percentages of visible fecal matter (20% vs. 76%, p=0.000), flies (8% vs. 32%, p=0.002), noticeable odor (24% vs. 76%, p=0.000), visible urine/saliva on the floor (6% vs. 38%, p=0.000), and maggots (16% vs. 40%, p=0.007). Targeted interventions, including the implementation of reward schemes, are recommended to improve the maintenance and cleanliness of shared sanitation facilities. These interventions should be gender-sensitive and address the specific challenges identified. The findings highlighted the need to tailored into sanitation practices and the effectiveness of interventions in low-income settlements. Understanding the current arrangements and challenges allows for the design of more effective strategies to enhance sanitation outcomes and improve community well-being.