Factors affecting FSM in arid and semi-arid areas of Isiolo Sub-County (Kenya)

Access to safe and adequate sanitation remains a significant challenge in low- and middle- income countries, including Kenya. To address this issue, onsite sanitation facilities have gained global acceptance, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas. However, faecal matter accumulating in these technologies is usually poorly managed, posing risks to public and environmental health and leading to adverse economic and social effects. The study investigated the influence of social, environmental, and technological factors on the management of faecal matter in Isiolo Sub-County. Convergent mixed methods design was used to obtain quantitative data using structured questionnaires. Stratified and proportionate simple random sampling were employed to identify 355 households’ heads for the survey. The data was analysed in descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis. Logistic regression was computed in univariate and multivariate analysis to determine the relationship between predictors and dependent variables, and results were presented as an odds ratio with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI). Qualitative data was obtained from two focus group discussions, analysed thematically and presented in narratives. From the findings, pit latrine was most commonly used at 77.1%, and about 46.5% of the resulting excreta was poorly managed. The study established social factors such as gender roles (p=0017), knowledge of safe disposal (p=0.000), and social norms (p=0.001) to have a significant influence on the management of faecal matter. Rainfall (p=0.03), Space (p=0.036), land use (p=0.013), latrine accessibility (p=0.05), availability of local resources (p=0.009), and user-friendly toilets (p=0.036) recorded statistically significant associations with management of faecal matter. The study concluded that poor management of faecal matter was critical to public health and was influenced by multiple social, environmental, and technological aspects. The study recommends the need for sanitation stakeholders to incorporate social and technological considerations in developing and implementing government policies. In addition, there is a need to promote sanitation innovations that improve the design and construction of sanitation facilities that can withstand climatic change.