Women, Water, And Sanitation: Household Behavioral Patterns In Two Egyptian Villages

Abstract

Understanding the behavior patterns of women in rural households regarding water and sanitation may be the key to solving the problem of why improvements in facilities may not be accompanied by a reduction in disease prevalence. An interdisciplinary team surveyed 312 households in two Egyp tian delta villages, examining46 of them in depth, with participant observation. Their patterns of storing water, and its use for drinking, cooking, washing, animal rearing and waste disposal are rooted in the woman's beliefs regarding cleanliness and what enhances the health and well-being of herfamily The local environment of surface and groundwater availability, quality andavailable drainage affect her choices. Otherfactors include local government institutions, available technology, information and educational facilities. time and energy expended on various practices, and social values held by the women and the community The women suggest practical solutions for their water and sanitation problems such as carts for collecting waste water, but feel powerless to influence local governments, or even their husbands, to institute new practices. Such targeted studies can disclose linkages among significant factors in the household environment, and should be undertaken for any project designed to provide effective and lasting water and sanitation in rural villages.