Availability of drinking water, hygiene and sanitation facilities in primary schools in 14 villages in the Agneby-Tiassa region (southern Côte d'Ivoire)
Author(s):
Kouassi Jean Luc EFFOH1, Sylvain BEOUROU2, Karim TUO2 and Adjoba Marthe KOFFI-DIDIA 1
The problem of access to water, sanitation and hygiene constitutes a great threat to human health in the world. Studies showed the inadequacy of the hygiene system, of sanitation and of drinking water favoring a disease burden particularly in developing countries. This research was carried out in fourteen (14) primary schools in rural areas in the Agnéby–Tassa region. It allowed us to assess the state and conditions of access to water and hygiene systems in these localities. To achieve the targeted objective, a cross-sectional study waas carried out from February to May 2022 in the rural area of the Agnéby-Tiassa region. In the fourteen selected schools, 270 students were interviewed. In addition, direct observations and a questionnaire survey were conducted. The results show that 53.8% of the schools surveyed do not have access to water sources. A rate of 71% have latrines. However, these latrines are used by 29% of the students who attend these schools. Regarding hygiene practices, nearly 58.5% of students have a good understanding of the need to wash their hands before eating. This is confirmed by 73.7% of the students who say they wash their hands with soap before eating. Considering all of the above, it is necessary for the authorities to make efforts to meet the need for adequate infrastructures and equipments with the aim of cleaning up schools in rural areas.