PriMera Scientific Medicine and Public Health (ISSN: 2833-5627)

Research Article

Volume 6 Issue 4

Analysis of Factors Associated with the Availability of Water, Hygiene and Sanitation Services in Schools: an Analytical Study in Schools in the Commune of Makiso in the Province of Tshopo, DRC

Freddy Badjoko E*, Eugene Basandja L, Zoe-Arthur KAZADI M, Joris LOSIMBA L and John Panda L

April 02, 2025

DOI : 10.56831/PSMPH-06-204

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Abstract

Introduction: Limited access to water and toilet facilities in schools increases the exposure of the school population to diseases related to hydro-fecal hazard. The objective of this study was to assess the factors associated with the availability of Water, Hygiene and Sanitation (WASH) services in schools in the city of Kisangani.

Methods: a cross-sectional study with analytical aims was conductedin 10 schools in the commune of Makiso, with 422 students and 120 teachers, during the period from September 1 to November 30, 2024.Pearson's chi-square test was used to investigate factors associated with EHA service availability.

Results: 25% of schools had a sanitation brigade. Almost all schools had toilets (98%), the most common number being 3 to 4 toilets (48%), 52% of schools lacked urinals and 100% did not have ramps for students with disabilities. School waste was more often disposed of by open burning (86%) and 48% of schools had farming equipment. The availability of Water, Hygiene and Sanitation (WASH) services was significantly high in schools in the denominational network and in those connected to the water distribution network (REGIDESO). The availability of farming equipment for sanitation work was significantly high in schools in the denominational network and almost zero for schools in the official network (p≤0.05).

Conclusion: The WASH service meeting the standards is poorly available at school level, the school's network of belonging is a factor associated with the availability of this service.

Keywords: Water; Hygiene; Sanitation; Schools; Kisangani; DRC

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