The Nightmare of Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries: The case of Mzuzu City, Malawi

Abstract

The indiscriminate disposal of solid waste poses serious consequences for people living in the urban areas of developing countries. The city of Mzuzu in the Northern Region in Malawi is a prime example of a location trapped in the web of unsustainable solid waste management (SWM). This thesis explores the links between SWM, community health, and disease burdens in Mzuzu City, examining perceptions of SWM's influence on public health, the disease burden related to urban sanitation, and the inclusivity of SWM practices. The theoretical contribution of this thesis lies in its exploratory synthesis of the relationships among SWM, health systems, and disease burden. It effectively addresses gaps in current literature and provides valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers. This work underscores the importance of inclusive and responsive SWM practices in enhancing public health and fostering environmental sustainability.Employing qualitative methods, the study conducted in-depth interviews, group discussions, and observations as primary data collection techniques, while also incorporating literature and policy documents as secondary sources. A total of 58 participants (25 males, 33 females) were interviewed in January and February 2024. Data were analyzed thematically using ATLAS.ti software, to highlight the key themes and insights derived from the research. The study protocol was reviewed and approved by the Ethical Committees of the Universities in Iceland and Mzuzu University.Findings show that SWM in Mzuzu City is marked by open dumping due to a lack of equitable waste collection services and infrastructure. Residents often view waste management as solely the municipality's duty, leading to minimal engagement in waste reduction. The research links poor waste practices to disease outbreaks, particularly cholera, diarrhoea, malaria, and respiratory infections, which strain the local health system. While preventive health services like education are lacking, they are deemed crucial for improving SWM practices. The study highlights serious environmental pollution, particularly from disposed diapers and plastics, and notes weak community involvement and coordination among stakeholders, which hinders local innovations. Ultimately, a sustainable healthcare system is interconnected with environmental stewardship, and neglecting preventive practices increases both the financial strain on health systems and the risks to community health. Thus, the study stresses the need to develop infrastructure, engage the community and promote sustainable waste management practices to reduce the financial burden on health systems. Keywords: community health, community perception, diapers, disease burden, engagement, environmental pollution, solid waste management