Focusing on Women for Water and Sanitation: The Case of Mapo Community in Ibadan,Nigeria

Abstract

This health service study has attempted to make a needs assessment of the Mapo Community in order to provide basis for appropriate and meaningful intervention. It is believed that even though this community is plagued with water, social, and economic problems, it was possible to reduce the burden of the residents and reduce water-borne infections by creating a sense of determination and self reliance among the women in particular and the community in general.

Geographical and topographic limitations have hindered community efforts to get wholesome water for domestic purposes. In response to this expressed need of the people an educational intervention using women as unit of practice and solution as water purification and management in order to reduce water-borne infections was embarked upon. Health talks, motivation of the participants, seminar/workshop for professional health providers, and laboratory sessions for water purification methods and techniques were some of the components of the learning process to achieve the goal. During and at the end of the project, participants showed interest and enthusiasm and demonstrated behavioral changes as far as making sure that the water they use is clean and kept so in clean receptacles. It is hoped that the process set up will continue through the Community Development Health Committee and the Mapo Zonal Health Office, Ibadan.

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