Assessing Factors Affecting the Availability and Utilization of Latrines at Chinseu Village in Zomba, Malawi

Atupele Mpembanji & Christine Selemani
Public Health Department, Malawi Adventist University
Malamulo College of Health Sciences
Emails: mpembanjiatupele9@gmail.com/ selemanic@mchs.adventist.org

Abstract: Poor sanitation is a pressing public health concern globally, with significant implications on disease prevention. This study aimed to assess factors affecting the availability and utilization of latrines in Chinseu Village, Zomba District, Malawi. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, targeting 64 households randomly selected in that village with and without latrine. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS. The study revealed that households from the village utilize latrines, however, only 54.7% of the households owned latrines, while 45.3% relied on shared facilities. Maintenance and cleanliness issues (31.3% poorly maintained) were highlighted as barriers to effective utilization. The study also discovered that almost all the study participants had knowledge on the benefits of latrine utilization (81.3%), yet significant associations were found between latrine availability and socio-demographic factors, which included age (p=0.033), economic status (p=0.025), and occupation (p=0.020). The study, therefore, concluded that latrine availability is affected by age, economic status and occupation status. The study’s critical recommendations for improving sanitation outcomes in similar contexts include enhancing community education, subsidizing sanitation facilities, and integrating sanitation initiatives with socio-economic development programs.