Authors : I.J.E. Zilihona, H.K. Mayaya, G. Mnyone and J. Nkonoki
Abstract: The problem of waste management in planned and unplanned settlement is currently a common phenomenon in developing countries. Of importance is to understand the best mechanisms through which such wastes can better be managed. It is on such basis this study aimed at analysing the perceived environmental risks and challenges of urban waste management in planned and unplanned settlements of Dodoma Municipality in Tanzania. In soliciting the required information, a total of 226 respondents of which 200 are from household level and the remaining 26 as key informants were involved in the study. The data generated were analysed through the use of descriptive statistics, multiple responses, cross tabulation and sometimes of combination of the above data analysis techniques. The study established that despite the commonality in the problem of waste management in Dodoma Municipality, there are some differences in terms of sources, types and composition of wastes between planned and unplanned settlements. Furthermore, the study revealed that epidemic diseases, blockage of water drainage systems, air pollution and environmental dirtiness are among the perceived environmental risks associated with poor waste management. The study also established that efforts and initiatives to deal with the problem of generated wastes encounter managerial, technical and awareness challenges and hence reducing their effectiveness. It is on the basis of the study findings, this study concludes that the problem of wastes in the municipality will continue to pose more environmental risks and hence the need to scale up its waste management efforts by investing on waste management infrastructures, awareness creation, promotion of stakeholders involvement and capacity building among waste management institutions and stakeholders.
I.J.E. Zilihona, H.K. Mayaya, G. Mnyone and J. Nkonoki, 2013. Perceived Environmental Risks and Challenges of Urban Waste Management in Planned and Unplanned Settlements of Dodoma Municipality in Tanzania. The Social Sciences, 8: 55-63.