What Can We Learn about Analysis of the Situation of Water, Hygiene and Sanitation in an African Rural Health Area: Study Case of Kavumu in Democratic Republic of Congo?

Background Access to water supply services in a healthy environment continues to be a problem in many neighborhoods in the DRC. This is the case of the Kavumu health area where these services are defective and cause episodes of diarrheal diseases. The purpose of this study is to analyze the water hygiene and sanitation situation in Kavumu health area and propose strategies for its improvement. Methods This study, a descriptive cross-sectional, was carried out in the Kavumu health area. It is a prospective approach supported by documentation and the interview. The survey questionnaire was sent to 287 householders, from September 2016 to February 2017. Results The study reveals that 86.8 % of respondents are married, where women represent 66.2 % and 73.2 % of households have at least 5 members. The literacy rate is 23.3 % for men and 30.3 % for women. The Kavumu health area has 13 spring waters in 10 villages out of a total of 25. Nearly 6 % of householders live in houses built of durable materials and 65.5 % have unhygienic latrines.39.7 % of households produce household waste and 60.3 % of households produce agricultural waste.32.8 % of households store waste in their yards. Conclusion The water, hygiene and sanitation situation in the Kavumu health area remains rudimentary. In view of results of this study, the elaboration of a plan for the improvement of water, hygiene and sanitation services is essential in this health area.