Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) Towards Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) Behaviours Among Communities in Northern Ghana

Abstract

Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) programs have been implemented extensively to eradicate open defecation and enhance sanitation practices. However, concerns about the sustainability of CLTS outcomes persist, necessitating a nuanced examination of the phenomenon. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of people in the Northern region of Ghana towards behaviors associated with the community-led total sanitation (CLTS) programme. The study design was a descriptive cross-sectional one and the approach for the study was quantitative. It involved the use of questionnaire to collect data from respondents. Data were gathered through survey among respondents in 12 communities across 3 districts. Socio-demographic characteristics were analyzed for their associations with knowledge, attitude, and practice. Results revealed significant associations between district, age, religion, occupation, and monthly income level with knowledge, attitude, and practice. Specifically, respondents from Saboba demonstrated higher odds of knowledge compared to Mion and Kpandai districts, while Muslims exhibited higher odds of knowledge compared to Christians. Monthly income levels of 200-500 and 501-1500 Ghanaian cedis were associated with improved knowledge and practice compared to incomes less than 200 cedis. Notably, good knowledge was positively correlated with good attitude. These findings underscore the importance of considering socio-demographic factors in designing and implementing sanitation interventions. Tailored strategies addressing specific factors identified in this study may enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of CLTS programs in the Northern Region of Ghana and similar contexts. Further research and targeted interventions are warranted to address the complex interplay between socio-demographic characteristics and sanitation behaviors.