Behavioural change in ODF rural settings (Côte d’Ivoire)

The technologies used for faecal sludge collection and disposal in community- driven total sanitation projects in Côte d’Ivoire are examined in this paper. Our focus is on investigating the sustainability factors that caused the end of open-air defecation status in rural sanitation projects in the Tonkpi Region. A cross- sectional study of 150 households in five rural villages in Côte d’Ivoire’s Tonkpi region was used to conduct the analysis. The assessment of motivating factors, perceptions, and constraints surrounding open defecation and latrine adoption was conducted using behavioural change theory. 94% of households have either traditional or improved toilets, while only 4% lack them altogether. There are 4% mechanical flush toilets, 25% manual flush toilets, and 71% dry toilets, which are the most commonly used type in the community. Health, shame, and insecurity were also found to be key motivators for individuals to change their sanitation behaviour. This study revealed that religious leaders, village chiefs, school principals, and local leaders were highly engaged in achieving Open Defecation Free. Communities need to transition from traditional to improved toilets to sustain and certify the End of open-air defecation status.