Assessing Socio-Economic Barriers to the Long- Term Success of Community-Led Total Sanitation in Magarini, Kilifi County Kenya

Fecal-oral infections in Magarini Sub County remain a critical public health challenge, largely due to the insufficient execution of the Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach initiated by the Ministry of Health. Around 5.6 million Kenyans still engage in open defecation, underscoring the urgent need for improved sanitation measures. This research examined the socio-economic determinants affecting the sustained adoption of CLTS-induced sanitation enhancements in the area. A convergent research methodology was used, gathering quantitative data via structured questionnaires from 388 household heads, chosen through stratified and proportionate random sampling. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25, generating descriptive and inferential statistics to assess variable relationships. The results revealed a notable link between location and religion in Magarini Sub-County, with a chi-square value (χ2) of 34.558, 20 degrees of freedom, and a p-value of 0.027. This suggests that geographic factors moderately influence religious affiliation, as indicated by a Cramer’s V coefficient of 0.162. However, no significant correlation was found between education levels and population distribution. These outcomes emphasize the importance of culturally and socially tailored policies that account for regional and religious variations. The study also identified personal savings and agricultural assets as key drivers in maintaining sanitation efforts. Sustainable financing approaches, community involvement, employment earnings, and government backing were deemed essential for long-term CLTS success. Dependence on these economic resources highlights the need for strategies that strengthen financial security and promote sanitation advancements. Policymakers and education leaders can leverage these findings to refine educational strategies and address sanitation disparities among different community segments. Further research was recommended to explore household income and education as determinants of infrastructure requirements for lasting sanitation improvements in Magarini Sub County. Tackling these socio-economic barriers and cultivating an enabling environment could enhance sanitation and hygiene, thereby lowering the prevalence of fecal-oral infections in the region.