Abstract
Worldwide, over 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, often relying on unsafe sources that increase hygiene risks and fecal contamination. This study assessed the mediating role of hygienic water handling practices in the relationship between household water security and fecal contamination in Wenago District, Gedeo Zone, South Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and April 2024, involving 411 randomly selected households. Data were collected through structured interviews, whereas microbiological analysis of stored water samples was performed using a Wagtech portable testing kit and membrane filtration technique. Statistical analyses were conducted, summarizing descriptive findings in both text and tables. Mediation analysis utilized multiple linear regression models to evaluate the direct and indirect effects. Findings showed that 69.1% of households practiced good water handling, 94.9% faced insecurity, and 93.4% of samples were fecally contaminated. Mediation analysis indicated a significant indirect effect of household water security on contamination through handling practices (B = 13.726; 95% CI: 11.400-16.050; p < 0.001). The direct effect remained significant (B = 28.019, 95% CI: 25.718, 30.321, p < 0.001), confirming partial mediation. These results underscore the importance of hygienic handling in reducing contamination risks and safeguarding public health.