Table 3 Results of the random forest showing the permutation variable importance measure (VIM) and ranking for aspects the physical environment as predictors of performance. Data Source: Model Disability Survey, Bankim Health District, Cameroon, 2016

Environmental factor: physical environment

I3006

Transportation

5.46

1

0.64

5

4.89

1

I3008

Toilet of your dwelling

5.4

2

4.52

1

0.03

8

I3007

Dwelling

3.62

3

3.44

2

0.49

4

I3010

Lighting, noise, crowds

2.79

4

0.16

8

1.86

2

I3009

Temperature, terrain, climate

2.31

5

0.93

4

0.13

7

I3001

Workplace or education institution

1.94

6

0.06

9

1.4

3

I3003

Places for socializing and community activities

1.8

7

0.34

6

−0.06

10

I3005

Places of worship

1.68

8

1.45

3

0.15

5

I3002

Health facilities

0.82

9

0.02

10

0.02

9

I3004

Shop, banks, post office

0.71

10

0.24

7

0.15

6

Control variable

Capacity

82.4

21.91

29.06

Age

2.62

1.51

1.89

Gender

−0.09

−0.01

− 0.43

Education

− 0.06

0.15

−1.63

Work

0.78

0.34

0.49

RMSE