Effectiveness of Water Sanitation and Hygiene Policy Used to Control the Spread of Cholera in Karim-Lamido Area of Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

Cholera continues to be one of the most severe waterborne diseases affecting developing nations, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where access to clean water and adequate sanitation remains a major challenge. Nigeria has recorded recurrent cholera outbreaks in several regions, and Taraba State has not been exempted. In response, government and health agencies have implemented water sanitation policies designed to mitigate the spread of cholera through improved water supply systems, sanitation infrastructure, and hygiene promotion. This study quantitatively examines the effectiveness of the water sanitation policy in controlling cholera outbreaks within Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, with particular emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—notably SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).The study adopted a quantitative research design to measure the relationship between water sanitation policy implementation and the incidence of cholera in the study area. Data were obtained through structured questionnaires administered to community residents, health workers, and local government officials, complemented by secondary data from local health records and public health reports. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used to summarize respondents’ demographic characteristics and policy awareness levels, while inferential statistics, including correlation and regression analysis, were employed to determine the strength and significance of the relationship between sanitation policy interventions and cholera incidence. Findings from the study revealed a statistically significant association between effective water sanitation practices and a reduction in cholera cases. Areas with functional boreholes, proper waste disposal systems, and active hygiene education programs recorded fewer cholera outbreaks compared to communities with poor sanitation coverage. However, the research also uncovered several constraints affecting policy implementation, including inadequate funding, poor maintenance of water facilities, weak enforcement mechanisms, and limited public awareness about hygiene practices. These challenges have hindered the full realization of policy goals, thereby sustaining the vulnerability of some communities to cholera transmission. The study concludes that strengthening the implementation of water sanitation policies is crucial for achieving the targets of SDG 3.3 (ending epidemics of waterborne diseases) and SDG 6.1 (ensuring universal access to safe and affordable drinking water). It emphasizes the need for enhanced governmental commitment, community involvement, and sustainable financing to improve water and sanitation infrastructure. Furthermore, regular monitoring, capacity building, and health education should be intensified to sustain behavioral change and ensure the long-term prevention of cholera outbreaks. Ultimately, the effective enforcement of water sanitation policies in Karim Lamido Local Government Area can serve as a model for other regions in Nigeria seeking to achieve sustainable public health outcomes through improved water and sanitation management.