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ABSTRACT
The concept of water, sanitation and hygiene is important to sustaining a healthy life style of residents in a community, country. The importance of water availability cannot be overemphasized coupled with the need for proper sanitation and hygiene. WASH has a limited understanding and people are ignorant of the important role it plays in our everyday life style. This study was carried out in a suburban community of Aduwawa in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government area, Benin city, Edo State. A total of one hundred and fifty questionnaires was administered to respondents in the community and their response were collected. Frequency and percentages were used to assess the respondent’s responses. The result obtained in this study showed that 107 (71.3%) of households have access to improved water source and borehole was the main source of water supply for households with majority 124 (82.7%) within their premises. Majority 136 (90.7%) of respondents stated the main water source was currently available and most of the respondents 79 (52.7%) use the water for washing, cooking only. The type of toilet facilities use in households were mainly flush/pour-flush to sewer 115 (76.7%) of which 111 (74%) stated the toilets available were enough for intending users. Majority of respondents 128 (85.3%) stated that the toilets were frequently washed and maintained. An estimate of 87 (58.0%) respondents stated waste are centrally collected and openly burnt, 136 (90.7%) stated the wastes are centrally collected and burnt in closure. On the basis of hygiene practices, majority of respondent’s 84 (56.0%) soap and water were currently available in their premises, and a 93 (62.0%) stated soap and water were available in the toilets. An estimate of 102 (68.0%) indicated they frequently wash their hands after using the toilet, while 117 (78.0%) stated they always wash their hands after handling children’s feces, an estimate of 97 (64.7%) of respondents stated they always wash their hands before cooking or eating. A higher percentage of respondents 92 (61.3%) stated they use soap and water for washing their hands and a higher percentage value of respondents 125 (83.3%) stated they always take their bathe. Public awareness campaigns and infrastructure improvements are essential steps toward achieving better health outcomes and enhancing the overall quality of life for the residents.
