Factors influencing generation of domestic solid wastes in Kisii Town, Kenya

Abstract

Domestic solid waste management (DSW) has been a critical problem in many urban centres in developing countries, including in middle sized towns. This paper investigates the factors influencing the generation of domestic solid waste in residential estates of Kisii town. The specific objective of the study included: to investigate the factors influencing the generation of DSW in residential estates in Kisii town. A mixed methodology approach was taken into consideration. A data sample of 110 households was obtained using the multi stage stratified sampling method from a target population of 20,000 households. Data collection methods of the sampled size involved the use of questionnaires to the householders and direct interviews to county officers in charge of DSW and observation integrated with photography. Data analysis was carried out using methods such as use of tables, use of graphs through SPSS, and other descriptive statistics such as the use of the measures of central tendency were taken into consideration. The results found that various factors including the size of the family 83.7% and the level of income 9.7% influenced the generation of domestic solid waste in the residential areas. In conclusion various factors influence the generation of DSW and the major one is family size. It is therefore recommended that, residents should be sensitized to purchase and cook what they can consume to reduce the excesses which surmount to DSW especially food remains.