The effects of rain floods on sanitation of IDPs in Hodan District, Mogadishu, Somalia.

ABSTRACT This dissertation investigates the effects of rain floods on sanitation among internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Hodan District of Mogadishu, Somalia. The increasing frequency of rain floods in urban areas such as Mogadishu has led to severe sanitation challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations like IDPs. These challenges are compounded by inadequate infrastructure, poor waste management systems, and limited access to clean water. This study aims to explore the impact of floods on sanitation in IDP camps, focusing on waterborne diseases, household waste management, and overall public health conditions in the district. The research employs a descriptive cross-sectional design, collecting data from 400 respondents through questionnaires and interviews. The findings indicate that floods exacerbate sanitation issues in the IDP camps by contaminating water sources, disrupting waste management systems, and increasing the prevalence of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. The study also highlights the relationship between household waste disposal and water sanitation, with improper waste management contributing significantly to water contamination and the spread of disease. Key socio-economic factors such as poverty, overcrowding, and inadequate infrastructure were identified as major barriers to effective sanitation in the IDP camps. The study found that a significant portion of the population is unaware of the health risks associated with poor sanitation, and limited access to sanitation facilities further hampers efforts to improve hygiene practices. Additionally, the fluid nature of IDP populations, with families frequently moving within and between camps, complicates long-term sanitation solutions. The dissertation concludes with recommendations for improving sanitation in IDP camps, including the construction of better drainage systems, the provision of clean water sources, and community-based education programs to raise awareness about sanitation and hygiene. The study calls for enhanced collaboration between the government, humanitarian organizations, and local communities to implement sustainable solutions that address the sanitation challenges faced by IDPs in Mogadishu.