The role of water supply reliability in influencing the uptake of safe toilet pans in Kenya

In Kenya, inadequate access to safe sanitation and the inconsistent use of available sanitation facilities present critical public health challenges, which necessitate sustainable interventions to improve sanitation infrastructure and hygiene practices. This study explored the influence of water supply reliability on the uptake of safe toilet (SATO) pans in Kitui and Kisumu Counties in Kenya. The research employed descriptive cross-sectional design, and used a mixed method approach. Data were collected from 382 participants (using a questionnaire) and 18 key informants through interviews. The participants were purposively sampled across both Counties. The results revealed a relationship between water supply reliability and SATO pan uptake. Kitui County residents, whose County experienced water scarcity, were 33.5% more likely to use SATO pans than those in Kisumu, whose County had more reliable water supply. The study thus underscores the role of SATO pan innovations as a context-appropriate sanitation solution, particularly due to their low-water-use design that suits areas with less water reliability. Moreover, the findings highlight the importance of creating awareness and promoting SATO pan innovations with careful consideration for water supply reliability as a key factor influencing adoption.