In 2013 Global Livingston Institute completed work on Entusi, a resort that would serve as a community hub for community development, leadership, research, and the formation of new partnerships. The authors of this paper worked closely with Global Livingston Institute to complete the research described in this paper.
Introduction
Water is critical for human life and for day to day activities. It is an important resource that needs to be protected. Access to clean water and basic sanitation can lead to healthier lives and the prevention of morbidity and mortality caused by diseases related to unclean water and poor sanitation practices. Worldwide at least 1.8 billion people are exposed to microbial contaminants in their water, and an estimated 2.4 billion people lack access to adequate sanitation (1). Of the top 20 health burdens for developing countries, unsafe water, sanitation, and hygiene fall among the most important issues (2).
This research was conducted as part of class assignments and a capstone by students at Colorado State University, and the University of Colorado. The capstone serves as a final project cumulating the wealth of knowledge and skills learned in the Masters of Public Health Program. This research was not only important in finishing assignments for school but, as an opportunity to gain experience working on health issues in the developing world. This research will be used as a reference in the future for work done addressing water and sanitation disparities in the developing world.
The purpose of this research project is to first observe and assess water and sanitation issues in rural Uganda around Lake Bunyonyi. This will be accomplished by using a questionnaire that assesses the potential for microbial disease in these communities due to water and sanitation practices. The second purpose of this project is to offer proposals and recommendations to help improve water and sanitation in these communities. Ideally, these recommendations will lead to lower rates of morbidity and mortality in the area surrounding Lake Bunyonyi and improve the overall quality of life.
