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Assessing the sustainability and utilization of CLTS facilities in rural Ghana: evidence from the Daffiama-Bussie-Issah District

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Community-led total sanitation (CLTS) has improved sanitation and reduced open defaecation in rural areas, but its long-term sustainability remains underexplored. This study examined the viability of sanitation facilities and practices in CLTS beneficiary communities in Ghana's Daffiama-Bussie-Issah District. Using a cross-sectional survey with probability sampling, 55 households across three communities were surveyed. Analysis with SPSS revealed that 74.5% of respondents now use ventilated improved pit latrines, showing notable behavioural change. Education emerged as a strong predictor of improved latrine use (p = 0.021), faecal sludge management (FSM) knowledge (p = 0.019), and capacity to rebuild latrines (p = 0.082). Structural durability was enhanced by plastered latrine walls (p = 0.015), while external support influenced reconstruction (p = 0.039). Despite limited FSM knowledge, acceptance of faecal-derived fertilizer was high (96.4%) across groups. The study concludes that while CLTS promotes positive outcomes, sustainability is threatened by technical fragility, weak FSM knowledge, and financial constraints, requiring strengthened education and support.

Source: Journal of Water Sanitation and Hygiene for Development

DOI: 10.2166/washdev.2025.111

Authors: Mohammed Awal Abubakari, Nuhu Ismail, Mueen Abdulai

Institution: Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies

Language: English

Topic: Child Nutrition and Water Access

Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics

Field: Nursing

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Good health and well-being, Sustainable cities and communities, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4415655151

FWCI: 0.562

Cites: 17

Cited by: 1

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