This study compares pit-latrine emptying businesses in Kampala, Uganda, and Kigali, Rwanda, focusing on resources, methods, and tariffs. Empirical data from Forever Sanitation and Pit Vidura show challenges with portable vacuum pumps in hard-to-reach areas, highlighting the need for formal manual emptying for some customers where mechanical methods are not viable. Manual emptying has similar duration to using a portable pump because of the additional time to set up, pack, and clean equipment. Higher regulatory standards can exclude households from using formal services. The study highlights the role of government in managing the tensions between affordability, formalization, and increasing coverage.

Bibliographic information

Jonathan Wilcox; Bruce Rutayisire; Nicholas Kuria; Barbara Evans; Jamie Bartram; Rachel Sklar (2023). Developing formal pit-latrine emptying businesses for hard-to-serve customers: resources, methods, and pricing structures Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development

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Recommended by SuSanA (other than SuSanA publications)Faecal sludge treatment processesUrban (entire city)Urban informal settlements (slums)Research publicationsEnglishImport to Sanitation Workers PlatformFinancial security, alternative livelihoodsFinancial security, alternative livelihoods

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 Developing formal pit-latrine emptying businesses for hard-to-serve customers: resources, methods, and pricing structures

The Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development is an Open Access peer-reviewed journal devoted to the dissemination of high-quality information on the science, policy and practice of drinking-water supply, sanitation and hygiene at local, national and international levels. It addresses the core public health needs and issues surrounding the provision of safe drinking water, safe sanitation and good hygiene practice to reduce infectious and non-communicable disease.

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