Impact of Rainwater Harvesting on Student Hygiene and Sanitation Practices in Schools. A Case of Muhanga District, Rwanda (2020-2025)

作者：Philibert Nizeyimana, Justin Nsanzabaganwa · 发表于：East African Journal of Environment and Natural Resources · 年份：2026 · DOI：10.37284/eajenr.9.3.5396 · 研究领域：Child Nutrition and Water Access、Urban Stormwater Management Solutions、Fecal contamination and water quality

Access to reliable water sources remains a critical challenge for educational institutions in developing countries, compromising student hygiene, sanitation, and overall learning environments. This study assessed the impact of rainwater harvesting (RWH) on student hygiene and sanitation practices in selected schools of Muhanga District, Rwanda. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design with quantitative dominance was employed, collecting data from 574 respondents (386 students and 188 teaching staff) across 12 schools using structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and ANOVA, while qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that RWH systems are widely installed in Muhanga District schools, with rooftop collection and storage tanks as the predominant configuration. System functionality was generally rated positively for water quality (M = 4.87) and system presence (M = 4.74), though dry-season water availability remained a significant challenge (M = 2.57). Harvested rainwater was extensively used for handwashing practices (overall M = 4.49), toilet sanitation (overall M = 4.45), and general school sanitation (overall M = 4.12). The most significant impacts were observed on girls' attendance (M = 4.71) and reduction of school water expenses (M = 4.71). Multiple regression analysi...