Solid waste management practices and human health in Nakawa Division, Kampala City, Uganda

Abstract

Solid waste management (SWM) remains a persistent urban challenge in developing countries, where poor practices contribute to health, environmental, and social problems. This study examined levels of awareness of SWM issues, household and community practices, attitudes, perceptions of health risks, and satisfaction with service provision, while identifying enablers and barriers to sustainable practices in Bukoto 1 Parish, Nakawa Division, Kampala City. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining surveys with insights from focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS, while qualitative data were coded and thematically analysed to capture community perspectives and contextual dynamics. Although 91 percent of respondents recognised poor waste disposal as a disease cause, practices lagged. Only 16 percent of households sorted waste, while most burnt or dumped it openly. Waste storage (81 percent) was common but often unsafe, exposing children and vulnerable groups to health risks. Ethnicity and occupation were stronger predictors of sorting than age, gender, or education. Awareness of recycling opportunities, perceptions of health risks, and satisfaction with household practices all strongly influenced sorting. Community-level leadership, peer norms, affordability, and infrastructure shaped the solid waste management practices. Qualitative findings revealed widespread frustration among residents over illegal dumping, irregular waste collection, and weak enforcement, despite generally positive attitudes toward proper SWM. While residents acknowledged KCCA’s efforts in sensitisation and waste collection, they emphasised the need for more frequent services, accessible communal containers, and stronger coordination with local leaders and landlords. Grassroots efforts, including community clean-ups and informal monitoring, were emerging as signs of growing collective responsibility. The study concludes that awareness and positive attitudes alone are inadequate without supporting infrastructure and consistent enforcement mechanisms. It recommends that KCCA broadens service coverage, promote recycling and recovery initiatives and enhance collaboration with community leaders, landlords, and private sector partners.