Hygiene, sanitation and CBRN security in Kinshasa: between regulations and practices in the Saïo neighbourhood

Abstract

Background: Hygiene and sanitation are major determinants of public health and health security. In the working-class neighbourhoods of Kinshasa, uncontrolled urbanisation, a lack of infrastructure and a lack of awareness of regulations expose the population to high health and CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear) risks.

Objective: To assess the quality of hygiene and sanitation, the level of awareness of regulations and the CBRN risks associated with the Saïo neighbourhood, in the municipality of Kasa-Vubu, Kinshasa.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 165 households selected using stratified random sampling by street. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire, a direct observation checklist and semi-structured interviews. Bivariate analysis used the chi-squared test (p < 0.05).

Results: Hygiene and sanitation standards were poor in 58.8 per cent of households. Only 37.0 per cent practised handwashing with soap and water, 58.8 per cent engaged in fly-tipping, and 53.9 per cent discharged wastewater onto the street. Single-pit latrines were the most common (60.6 per cent), 75.2 per cent of households shared their toilets, and 76.4 per cent of facilities were unsanitary. Level of education (p = 0.009), o , employment status (p < 0.001) and income (p = 0.003) were significantly associated with sanitation quality. With regard to regulations, 82.4 per cent of households were unaware of the existence of legal provisions relating to hygiene and sanitation, and 91.5 per cent had never received any awareness-raising on CBRN risks.

Conclusion: The hygiene and sanitation situation in the Saïo neighbourhood is generally poor, exposing the population to CBRN risks. Integrated interventions, including health education, enforcement of regulations and CBRN risk management, are required.

Keywords: Kinshasa, hygiene, sanitation, regulations, CBRN risks, public health, Saïo neighbourhood.

Received Date: June 19, 2026

Accepted Date: July 10, 2026

Published Date: August 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/917