Effects of Socio-economic Factors on Household Utilization of Improved Sanitation Facilities in Kenya

Abstract

Realization of ODF communities and progression on the sanitation ladder to 100% utilization of improved sanitation facilities has become an elusive goal for the WaSH sector both globally and in Kenya. The development WaSH sector has engaged governments in the last two decades in developing various strategic frameworks in a bid to achieve the Millennium Development Goals of 2015 and the Sustainable Development goals of 2030 for sanitation. Additionally, research studies have developed theoretical models and descriptive frameworks that endeavor to guide behavior change interventions related to sanitation. Kenya is among countries that have integrated the development goals in its sanitation strategic frameworks however; the country’s OD rate stands at 14% with an annual decline rate of 0.75%, while the rate of uptake of improved sanitation facilities is at 1%. This research study aimed to determine the effects of socioeconomic factors on utilization of improved sanitation facilities by households in Kenya. It followed the Integrated Behavior Model for Water Sanitation and hygiene and, employed probit model in analysis of the 2018 Kenya Integrated Budget Household Survey data to determine the effects of income, education level, gender and age on utilization of improved sanitation facilities by households in Kenya. The study applied probit model. The study findings indicate, the type of sanitation facility utilized by a household is determined by, the sex of the household head, the highest level of education attained by the household head and, the household income. The study concludes that sanitation policy formulation and implementation should target resources towards knowledge empowerment and increasing household income generating streams for investment in improved sanitation.