The impact of World Vision WASH program on rural public health in Thabana-Morena Mafeteng, Lesotho

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