Assessment of the performance of faecal sludge containment technologies in urban areas (Kenya)

The study focused on evaluating faecal sludge management technologies and practices in Athi River Sub County, Kenya. The objective of the study was to assess the containment technologies and management of Faecal Sludge (FS) in the area. The study aimed to identify and conduct a comparative analysis of different types of FS containment technologies, evaluate their performance, and assess the extent to which knowledge and awareness influence FS management. By assessing the performance of containment technologies, effective approaches for managing FS were identified. Understanding the effectiveness of different technologies could aid local authorities and policymakers in allocating resources more efficiently. A cross-sectional research design was used for collection of both quantitative and qualitative data. The study population included households’ heads, public toilet operators and sanitation experts. Both probability and non-probability sampling techniques were utilized to select participants, and a sample size of 399 targeted. Primary data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and observations. Descriptive and inferential analysis techniques were used, with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software considered for quantitative analysis. Predominant FS containment technologies included pit latrines and septic tanks with utilization rates of 32.8% and 67.2% respectively. The type of containment technology had a significant relationship with performance of faecal sludge management (β=0.377, p < 0.001). The performance of containment technology scored an aggregate mean of 3.32 and had a significant relationship with faecal sludge management (β=-0.222, p < 0.001). Knowledge and awareness scored a mean of 3.13 and a significant relationship with performance of faecal sludge management (β of -0.172, p<0.001). Overall, the predictors contributed to 35.1% of the variability in performance of faecal sludge management. In conclusion, the performance of faecal sludge containment technologies was low due to the type of systems available. Recommendations proposed included implementing educational initiatives to improve community knowledge and awareness of FS containment technologies, and encouraging the adoption of sustainable technologies. The findings were crucial in informing policies and interventions aimed at enhancing sanitation practices and mitigating public health and environmental risks in the region.