SANITATION

Access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) is fundamental to public health, gender equity, and sustainable development and is central to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 and SDG 5. Despite sustained investments in Nigeria, persistent gender and social inclusion gaps continue to disproportionately affect women, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and other vulnerable groups. This study assessed gender and social inclusion in WASH service delivery in selected communities in Edo State, Nigeria, by evaluating access levels and determinants of equitable access. A descriptive cross-sectional mixed-methods design was employed. Data were collected from 371 household respondents across 12 communities using structured questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions, and Key Informant Interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression, while qualitative data were analysed thematically, with WASH access assessed using a composite scoring system based on WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme standards. Results showed universal access to basic water sources, but weak sanitation and hygiene: over 85% of facilities were basic or limited, and only 30% of households had functional handwashing facilities with water and soap. Fewer than 10% of communities had PWD- accessible facilities, and women’s participation was similarly low. Disability status, education level, and residence were significant determinants of equitable access (OR = 6.07; p = 0.025). The study concludes that strengthening gender-responsive planning, disability- sensitive infrastructure, and community participation is essential for equitable and sustainable WASH outcomes.

The world Health Organization (WHO (2008) defined environmental sanitation as the control of all those factors in man’s physical environment, which exercise or may exercise a deleterious effect on his physical development, health and survival. Environmental sanitation is a conventional actions or an essential process of collecting and safely disposing all kinds of waste within the environment with the intention of protecting and promoting the individual health and quality of life of communities. Environmental sanitation generally includes the provision of facilities and services for the safe disposal of waste, the maintenance of hygienic conditions and the prevention of diseases (WHO,2017). Adequate environmental sanitation practices remains a panaceat of public health intervention that is essential for social and economic development especially in developing countries like Nigeria. Environmental sanitation practice is a frontrunner to the enhancement or development of health, well-being and economic productivity and benefits the individual, household and community should enjoy (WHO)(2004)and Mara, Lane, Scott, and Trouba(2010)