Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) of Ngaliema residents regarding sanitation: A case study in Ngomba-Kikusa, Kinshasa, DR Congo
1 Mention Life Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Kinshasa, P.O. Box 190, Kinshasa XI, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
2 Mention Chemistry and Industry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Kinshasa, P.O. Box 190, Kinshasa XI, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
3Mention Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Kinshasa, P.O. Box 190, Kinshasa XI, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
4 Center of Excellence for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CoE-CBRN), Ministry of Higher Education, Universities, Scientific Research, and Innovation, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Research Article
International Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research Updates, 2026, 06(02), 001–008.
Article DOI: 10.53430/ijcpru.2026.6.2.0036
Publication history:
Received on 02 March 2026; revised on 11 April 2026; accepted on 13 April 2026
Abstract:
Background: The persistent unsanitary conditions observed in several neighborhoods of Kinshasa, particularly in Ngomba-Kikusa (Ngaliema municipality), constitute a major risk to public health and the environment. This study aims to assess the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) of households regarding sanitation in order to identify the main determinants influencing sanitary behaviors.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted from May 16 to June 16, 2025, among 230 adult residents (non-probability sample). Data collected through a questionnaire were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 (descriptive statistics: frequencies, means; inferential statistics: χ² test and binomial logistic regression). Internal validity was confirmed (Cronbach’s α = 0.74; response rate = 83%).
Results: The average knowledge score was 5.8/10, and 31.7% of respondents were unaware of the link between waste and disease. Although 72.2% recognized that neighborhood cleanliness is a collective responsibility, 45.2% still relied on illegal dumping sites. Only 15.7% benefited from a public waste collection service. Regression analysis showed that education level ≥ secondary (OR=4.14), access to drinking water (OR=2.86), and good sanitary knowledge (OR=2.64) were significant predictors of good sanitation practices.
Conclusion: The findings highlight a paradox between attitudes and practices, largely influenced by inadequate infrastructure and limited training. An integrated approach combining targeted community education, improved access to water, and the establishment of local waste management systems is essential to address the public health emergency. This study provides a scientific basis for sanitation policies adapted to vulnerable neighborhoods in Kinshasa.
Keywords:
Urban sanitation; KAP study; Household waste management; Environmental health; Kinshasa; Socio-economic determinants; Logistic regression.
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Copyright © 2026 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0