Exploring technical challenges that affect sustainable solid waste management practices in Mzuzu City, Malawi

Abstract

Rapid population growth and urbanisation have led to an increase in demand for different products in developing countries and this eventually has resulted into an increase in solid waste such as paper, plastics, bottles, glass and metals. Poor management of solid waste causes air pollution and health problems resulting into respiratory diseases such as asthma and pneumonia. Further, improper organic waste management risks being a breeding ground for disease causing organisms. This paper explores technical challenges faced by the MCC that affect efforts to achieve sustainable solid waste management practices in Mzuzu city, Malawi. The study employed a qualitative case study design. The study was conducted in Mzuzu city and it targeted people involved in solid waste management. Expert and homogeneous purposive sampling techniques were applied to select participants and the sample size was eighteen. Data was generated through semi structured interviews, focus group discussions and observations, and data was analysed thematically. The study found that sustainable solid waste management practices in Mzuzu city face technical challenges which include; breakdown of transportation vehicles, inadequate waste bins and lack of recycling machinery. It was recommended that, Mzuzu city council should ensure that it deals with technical challenges promptly, in order to achieve sustainable solid waste management in the city, so as to prevent harm to the environment and human beings.