Abstract:
Rural public health is a worldwide problem affecting many countries, particularly developing
countries. Most of the rural residents are faced with multiple health challenges due to limited
access to health services living them vulnerable and exposed to being infected by different
diseases. Against this background, this study seeks to evaluate the role played by World Visons’
WASH program on improving rural public health through activities and projects it implements
using a case study of Makoabating community at Thabana Morena Mafeteng in Lesotho. The study
employed qualitative research design and both purposive and convenience sampling techniques
were applied. The sample used are Makoabating community leaders and members, health workers
and World Vision staff. Open ended questionnaire and face to face interview guides were used to
collect data. The study revealed that WASH program had a positive impact on promoting rural
public health in Makoabating community through capacity building programs such as workshops
and trainings and awareness campaigns on practicing good hygiene for improved health. Findings
further points that WASH program led to the presence of protected water sources, availability of
clean water and improved sanitation in the community. The study further revealed that most of the
people engaged in good hygiene practices such as regular hand washing with soap and running
water and these resulted to promotion of good hygiene behaviour and healthy lifestyle. The study
thus concludes that World Vision WASH program has promoted and improved Makoabating rural
community public health. It is recommended that WASH program services and facilities should be
sustained so as to promote and improve rural public health for sustained lives of the communities
