Effectiveness of podcasting in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) education: a case of Bindura town

Abstract

The world particularly developing countries such as Zimbabwe have continued to experience recurrent water and sanitation related diseases outbreaks despite efforts by various governments and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to educate community. In Bindura, in 2015 Practical Action Southern Africa has used podcasting technology to raise WASH awareness and improve the relationship between residence and municipality with the aim of reducing the burden of diarrhoeal diseases. This study seeks to assess the effectiveness of podcasting in raising WASH related awareness in Bindura with the aim of reducing the burden of diarrhoeal diseases. The project assesses WASH behaviour practise and knowledge at project inception and at project end. Focus Group Discussions and key informant interviews were used to collect information on WASH behaviour change as a result of hygiene session through podcasting. It was observed that after six months of WASH education on various topics through the use of podcasting, health clubs members could now articulate how to prevent ailments and how to deal with them in the event they occur. Most of the club members were also now practicing improved waste management. Messages received through podcasting helped to improve hygiene practices at individual and home level. Signs of hygiene practice were seen around the home surroundings, bathrooms, kitchens and gardens. Health club members together with family members now wash their hands before engaging in any activity for example before eating and after visiting the toilet. Washing of hands using soap has now become a habit to many. Participants are no longer using the traditional method of washing hands in one dish. Use of jugs, soap and running water is now in use. In conclusion therefore, it is evident that podcasting improves WASH behaviour practise. Municipality and stakeholder need to support community effort to obtain WASH knowledge.