Contributions of Rusphin Programme to Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (Kap) to Sanitation and Hygiene in Gwer LGA, Benue State

Abstract

The study assessed the contributions of RUSPHIN Programme to knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of sanitation and hygiene among the people of Gwer LGA of Benue State. The study adopts a survey design. A total of 381 samples determine by Taro Yamene’s formula were drawn from the population of 7,994 households using purposive sampling techniques. Descriptive statistics including frequency, tables and percentages were used to present and analyse the data. Findings of the study showed that; there was a significant improvement in the level of KAP on sanitation and hygiene among the rural people after the implementation of the RUSHPIN Programme with only 1.8 % still practicing open defecation as against 83.7% who were engaged in the act before the implementation of the RUSHPIN programme. Strategies such as enactment of bye laws and frequent monitoring visits to the rural communities were put in place to help sustain the programme in the study area. Based on the findings, the study concludes that the standard of hygiene and sanitation in the study area is satisfactory but for a few issues such as lack of awareness of linkage between sanitation and personal hygiene, and water supply. The study thus recommends among others that efforts be geared towards the periodic assessment of the knowledge, attitude and practice of sanitation and hygiene at the household level. Particularly in the rural areas where basic and improved sanitation coverage is inadequate. As well as interventions by government and or international organizations through ensuring good sanitation and hygiene practice in the rural areas.