THE IMPACT OF POOR SANITATION PRACTICES ON THE PREVALENCE OF DIARRHEA DISEASES IN URBAN SLUMS: CASE STUDY OF MAKOKO COMMUNITY

Inadequate sanitation remains a persistent and severe public health challenge in many developing countries, especially within rapidly expanding urban slums. This study investigates the impact of poor sanitation practices on the prevalence of diarrhea diseases in Makoko, an informal settlement in Lagos, Nigeria. Makoko is representative of many urban slums in sub-Saharan Africa, where access to basic services such as clean water, proper waste disposal, and hygienic toilet facilities is extremely limited. The consequences of these deficiencies are reflected in the high burden of preventable diseases—particularly diarrhea, which remains aleading cause of morbidity and mortality, especially among children under five. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, and direct environmental observations. Data were collected from 50 households across different zones of the Makoko community, as well as from healthcare providers, community leaders, and sanitation workers. The study examined variables such as the availability of sanitation facilities, frequency of open defecation, sources of water supply, waste disposal methods, hygiene awareness, and incidence of diarrhea in households over a six-month period Findings reveal a direct and significant correlation between poor sanitation practices and the frequent occurrence of diarrheal diseases. Approximately 68% of surveyed households relied on unsafe water sources such as contaminated wells or surface water. Over 55% practiced open defecation or used shared, poorly maintained latrines. Solid waste was often disposed of in nearby water bodies or open spaces, contributing to environmental contamination. Furthermore, the study identified limited hygiene education, poor enforcement of sanitation regulations, and government neglect as major aggravating factors. The research concludes that poor sanitation is not only a technical or infrastructural issue but also a socio-political and behavioral one. To reduce the prevalence of diarrhea and improve public health outcomes in Makoko and similar communities, a multifaceted approach is necessary. This includes substantial investment in sanitation infrastructure, the provision of safe and affordable water, community-based hygiene education programs, and stronger institutional policies to support slum upgrading and environmental health services. This study contributes to the growing body of literature advocating for inclusive urban planning and equitable access to sanitation. It also emphasizes the role of community participation and multi-stakeholder collaboration-engaging government agencies, NGOs, public health experts, and local residents-in developing sustainable and context-specific interventions. Addressing the sanitation crisis in urban slums like Makoko is essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and disease, and for achieving broader public health and social justice goals.