Consequences of disparities in sanitation infrastructures on the environment and the health of populations in the city of Cotonou

Abstract

This study focused on the problems of disparities in sanitation infrastructure and their consequences on the environment and health in the city of Cotonou. The methodology focuses on documentary research, sociological surveys by questionnaire, direct observation using an observation grid. A total of 10 boroughs and 20 neighborhoods were covered. The Accelerated Participatory Research Method (MARP) was used to reach households in order to have their perceptions on the causes of floods and sanitation problems, their impacts on the environment and health. The model (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) served as the basis for the analysis and interpretation of the results. The cartographic data was processed using GIS software. The maps were drawn up using the topographic base map from the National Geographic Institute (IGN). The results obtained show that there are significant differences in terms of sanitation in Cotonou.This is partly due to the irregular settlement of populations in unhealthy areas where the land have not been serviced in time. As far as the collectors are concerned, there are arrondissements which are not or poorly provided for, whereas the need is real. This is the case of the 1st, 2nd, 7th, 8th, 12th, arrondissements. This same trend is observed with the paved roads and gutters in these respective arrondissements. It has been observed that the majority of domestic wastewater is discharged on the ground, outside or in the courtyard of the concessions (87%households) and this is explained by the fact that the majority of households do not have pits for the collection of this water. The water from the shower is collected in the pits (77% of households) or is left to infiltrate directly into the ground (40% of households). The existence of sewage streams and uncontrolled deposits of solid waste in the city are certainly one of the causes of ailments such as malaria, diarrhea, and acute respiratory ailments.