Improving sanitation access in Kampala slums

The Kampala Integrated Environmental Planning and Management Project (KIEMP) is a 5-year bilateral multi-sector aid project for basic social services, funded by the Government of Belgium, the Government of Uganda and Kampala City Council (KCC). KIEMP is being jointly implemented since August 2006 by KCC and the Belgian development agency, BTC, in three parishes of Kampala. The general objective of KIEMP is to improve the quality of life of poor communities in the suburbs of Kampala. The specific objective is to enhance environmental planning and management in the poor suburbs of Kampala.

The construction of public toilets was one of several activities aiming at improved environmental conditions; this has been complemented by on the one hand social mobilisation (carried out by contracted local CBOs/NGOs) and on the other hand a behavioural change component. 35 public toilets were constructed after a participatory siting process. Vault toilets were adopted, as they have lower operation and maintenance costs and were found to be more appropriate for slums. Every public toilet facility has several gender-segregated stances (cubicles), including 4 toilet stances and 2 bathrooms, as well as a urinal; and a small communal tap. A caretaker approved by the community has been appointed to each toilet. The caretaker collects user fees which are used for the operation and maintenance of the toilet. Management structures have also been set up, both at parish and zonal level. They are meant to monitor the work of the caretaker to ensure proper operation and maintenance of the toilet.

Behavioural change focuses on changing perceptions, attitudes and practices with regard to the use, maintenance and management of local infrastructures, and on promoting individual, domestic and community hygiene practices for improved public health.

1. Improving sanitation access in Kampala slums.pdf (422.3 kB)