Solid Waste Management in Kawempe Division: Issues, Challenges and Emerging Options.

http://www.nurru.or.ug/pdf/Solid_Waste_Management_in_Kawempe_Division.pdf

ABSTRACT

Garbage is increasely becoming a big problem in many cities of the world and Kampala is

no exception. This report is from a study that looks at the nature, practices, challenges,

and possible solutions for garbage management systems at community level in Kawempe

Division, Kampala. This study places emphasis on domestic waste. This is because in

Kampala this category generates substantial amounts of solid wastes with considerable

indiscipline. The study has used mainly participatory approaches. The findings suggest

that in Kawempe Division, poor communities could generate income from waste disposal

activities, if certain measures are put in place. Furthermore, in this division, 67% of the

garbage is biodegrable, composed mainly of food related waste. Non degradable wastes

constitute the 33%, of which the main component is buveera (or polythene bags). It was

also established that a good part of the communities currently use illegal methods of

disposal. This includes burning and open space dumping. Among the challenges facing

waste management are the inactivity of institutional framework to support and mobilize

for effective waste disposal. As a result there is little community effort to reduce on the

problem. It was also established that existing income opportunities from garbage are not

fully utilized. Second, different waste types will need diversified approaches. Third,

institutional capacity at community level is still a major challenge. Fourthly, successful

community waste management programmes will need to entail income generation. And

fifthly, sensitization of community should be given more attention. The communities’

themselves suggested the following solutions: sensitization, community work, and

reviving environmental committees. The study recommended the following: composting,

converting garbage to energy, sensitization, and building strong institutions at grassroots

levels.