Water access, hygiene and sanitation among refugee households in Kyangwali Settlement, Kikuube District

Abstract

This study investigated how access to water affects the hygiene and sanitation of refugees in the Kyangwali settlement, Kikuube District. It examined the social factors that influence access to water; documented the current state of water access in terms of availability, functionality, and accessibility for refugees; explored how refugees’ perceptions of water quality influence utilization patterns; and analyzed the effect of water access on refugees’ hygiene and sanitation. The study was guided by social capital theory and the theory of access. The research employed a mixed-methods approach with an explanatory sequential design. Quantitative data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires from 377 respondents, while qualitative data were obtained from nine key informants and three focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 20, whereas qualitative data were analyzed manually using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that boreholes (41.9%) and public yard taps (34.7%) were the primary sources of water. Distance, congestion, and unreliable maintenance emerged as significant constraints to water access, in some areas, three villages relied on a single borehole. Coping strategies for water challenges were widespread, including rationing, borrowing, reliance on unsafe alternatives, and advance storage, reflecting constrained access to materials and use. Perceptions of water quality were largely positive but based on sensory judgments such as taste, color, and smell, which fluctuated seasonally. While 62% reported treating water before use, this was undermined by fuel costs, beliefs, and taste concerns, and unsafe storage posed a risk of recontamination. Social factors also mediated access: women and girls bore over 90% of the collection burden, exposing them to strain and harassment. Leadership and community initiatives helped regulate access. The findings indicate that limited and unreliable access to water constrained household hygiene and sanitation practices, including reduced bathing, inconsistent handwashing, and difficulties maintaining clean sanitation facilities; in this context, water-related illness, predominantly diarrhea, was commonly reported. The study recommends training and sensitizing refugees on water treatment methods and safe storage practices. Furthermore, appointing refugees to water management committees can help sustainably maintain water points.