Examining the Effectiveness of the Mpulungu Water Supply and Sanitation Project on Household Health Outcomes among Rural Residents: A Case Study of Mupata Village

This study examines the effectiveness of the Mpulungu water supply and sanitation project (MWSSP) on household health outcomes in Mupata village, Northern Province. The objectives were to assess the impact of improved water infrastructure on reducing waterborne diseases, evaluate how sanitation interventions influence hygiene practices and overall health, and determine the relationship between access to clean water and the frequency of health facility visits related to sanitation -linked illnesses. A mixed method design integrated qualitative and quantitative interviews, focus group discussions, and observations. Quantitative data, collected from 100 randomly selected households, measured water access, sanitation facilities, hygiene behaviors, and health outcomes using a quasi-experimental pre and post- intervention approach. Qualitative data captured community perceptions and contextual factors. Additional information was drawn from clinic records and project reports. Data were analyzed using stata, jamovi, and NVivo12, employing descriptive statistics, correlation, logistic regression, and thematic analysis, with triangulation enhancing validity. Results showed that 46% of households accessed improved water sources, while 54% relied on unimproved sources. Hygiene practices were strongly associated with water access (p=0.8829, p<0.001). Socioeconomic status (B=0.900, p<0.001) and education (B=0.102, p=0.002) significantly predicted health outcomes, whereas sanitation factors were not significant after controls. qualitative findings indicated reduced waterborne diseases, improved cleanliness, and increased convenience due to sanitation facilities. The integration of water and sanitation interventions produced synergistic improvements in hygiene and health. The study recommends expanding improved water sources, strengthening sanitation infrastructure, enhancing hygiene education, supporting low-income households, and sustaining integrated WASH interventions through continuous community engagement and monitoring.