A climate-resilient decision support approach for optimal sanitation facility siting

Abstract

Sanitation infrastructure in climate-vulnerable regions presents significant public health challenges, particularly when exacerbated by poor facility siting and limited community engagement. This study develops a comprehensive climate-resilient decision-support approach for optimal sanitation facility placement at Uganda's Kayanja Fish Landing Site in Kasese District, an area characterized by unimproved sanitation. The research methodology integrates three complementary approaches: advanced geospatial analysis, multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM), and participatory community involvement. Geospatial assessment revealed extensive flood vulnerability across Kayanja, with most existing latrines at high risk, while simultaneously identifying viable zones for safer facility relocation. The MCDM model synthesized critical environmental factors (soil permeability, groundwater depth), social considerations (accessibility, affordability), and climate risks (flooding frequency and severity) to identify optimal siting locations with favourable conditions for sustainable sanitation infrastructure. Robust community surveys and statistical analysis revealed strong preferences for individual household latrines and demonstrated that participatory approaches significantly enhanced facility acceptance, consistent usage, and long-term sustainability. Results validate that the framework effectively mitigates risks from extreme weather events, reduces contamination of water sources, and strengthens overall infrastructure resilience. Key recommendations include: prohibiting construction in high-risk flood zones, implementing elevated or flood-resistant designs such as raised biodigesters in waterlogged areas, and conducting targeted community workshops to promote climate-adaptive maintenance practices. This study makes a significant contribution to both Uganda's Vision 2040 and Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by providing a replicable decision-support tool for resilient sanitation planning in developing regions. By successfully integrating technical resilience with social equity considerations, the framework offers a practical model for sustainable sanitation infrastructure that addresses the interconnected challenges of climate adaptation and public health in vulnerable communities