Diagnosis of open defecation in Yamoussoukro District (Central Côte d’Ivoire)

Abstract

The pathological landscape of Yamoussoukro district is dominated by environmental diseases (malaria, typhoid fever, respiratory infections). These diseases are linked to lack of sanitation and hygiene and open defecation. The objective of this study is to draw up an inventory of fixtures of sanitation in Yamoussoukro district and determine the reasons for the practice of open defecation and thus propose effective strategies to combat this practice. Methodology used consists of direct observation in the field and a household survey. The sampling technique adopted is that of Shawartz, with a sample size of 373 households. Initially, an inventory of the sanitation situation in the study localities was drawn up, revealing a sanitation problem with 62,34 % of households lacking latrines in Kpangbassou, 82,22% in Aboukro, and 82,14% in Duokro. Analysis of the reasons prompting communities to opt for open defecation (OD) highlights determining factors such as the absence of a law prohibiting it, cultural reasons, perceptions of populations, the low level of income and education of household heads. Although socio-economic factors play a predominant role in the adoption of this practice, it is essential to pay particular attention to the economic aspects. Following these results, solutions were proposed to OD. Suggested strategies include the CLTS / EcoSan approach, enhanced CLTS / EcoSan monitoring and community awareness raising.