Includes Appendix and Reference

ABSTRACT
The issue of sanitation has long existed and drawn criticism from figures like Mahatma
Gandhi, who stated that sanitation in a community is more important than independence.
Latrine utilization is among ways of ensuring that communities are safe and are not
interacting with disease causing pathogens. Evidence studies have revealed that the presence
of latrines has not completely been a guarantee for their utilization especially among the
pastoral communities. The study aimed to assess influence of social, cultural, and economic
factors in promoting latrine utilization in Laisamis sub-county, Marsabit County, Kenya.
The study adopted cross-section survey design, to obtained both quantitative and qualitative
data. Quantitative data was obtained using Structured questionnaires and qualitative data
from Focused group Discussions (FGD). Cluster, purposive, and simrevple proportionate
random sampling was used to identified 177 Households heads and participants of FGD.
Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version
26.0 for descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis. Logistic regression was
computed in univariate and multivariate analysis to determine the relationship between
predictors and latrine utilizations, and results were presented as an odds ratio with 95%
Confidence Interval (CI). Qualitative data was analyzed thematically and presented in
verbatim. From results 76.3% of respondents indicated latrine to be accessible and only
35.6% of latrine was utilized. The study found that social factors such as societal network
(AOR = 9.793, p = 0.023), perception of latrine use as a sign of respect and cleanliness
(AOR = 2.708, p = 0.004), and social stigma (AOR = 12.084, p < 0.001) was significantly
associated with latrine utilization. Cultural predictors included cultural acceptance of latrines
(AOR = 1.662, p = 0.009), OD signifies continuation of ancestors (AOR = 1.823, p = 0.004)
and cultural taboos (AOR = 0.255, p = 0.002) were statistically significant. Additionally,
Pastoralism (AOR = 6.305, p = 0.007), affordability (AOR = 2.243, p = 0.028) and
incentives (AOR = 0.429, p = 0.001) significantly influence to latrine utilization. The study
concludes that latrine ownership alone does not ensure consistent use in pastoralist settings.
Social, cultural beliefs, and economic barriers significantly hinder utilization, contributing to
continued open defecation and poor public health outcomes. Addressing these challenges
requires more than infrastructure it demands a holistic approach that considers the socio
cultural context and economic realities of rural households. The study recommends
community-based behavior change programs involving local leaders, elders, and influencers
to challenge taboos and social stigma. Government and non-governmental actors should
integrate culturally responsive education and participatory approaches to ensure lasting
impact