PERCEPTION OF A SCHISTOSOMIASIS CONTROL PROJECT IN RURAL KENYA BY THEBENEFICIARIES

A schistosomiasis control project was implemented in Mwea Rice Irrigat ion Scheme in Central Kenya between late 1983 and December 1988 by Ken ya Medical Research Institute scientists in collaboration with the Nat ional Irrigation Board. The aim of the project was to control schistos omiasis through provision of alternative water sources, bath and laund ry units, latrines, chemotherapy and health education. The community p articipated fully. Five years later in December 1988, 203 household he ads were interviewed on their perception of the control project in ter ms of purpose, project ownership and management, benefits, continuity and their knowledge of schistosomiasis transmission cycle. 61% or the respondents were females and 39% males. 92% of them said that the purp ose for the project was to treat, control and prevent bilharzia from s preading, and to promote good health. Slightly over 50% said that the project belonged to them but that they would have liked to be more inv olved in its management. 74% said that they are able to save time beca use the facilities are now nearer to them; whilst 79% felt that they w ere saving money because they did not have to buy drugs since they fel t healthier. 99% said that they thought that bilharzia has been contro lled, and 82% said that their children looked healthier. 95% said that they could see the project surviving for a long time period suggestin g that it was self sustaining and they were willing to start a mainten ance of facilities fund. Overall, the community appreciated the social , economic and health benefits derived from the control project.