Effective household solid waste management is a critical challenge facing many urban centers in developing
countries like Uganda. The rapid urbanization, population growth, and changing consumption patterns have led to
a significant increase in solid waste generation, outpacing the capacity of local authorities to manage it properly.
In Ishaka Division, Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality, the problem of solid waste management is particularly acute,
characterized by poor access for waste collection, congestion, and land tenure issues that hinder proper waste
handling by residents. This study aimed to determine the factors affecting household solid waste management in
Ishaka Division. A cross-sectional study was conducted using quantitative methods of data collection. The study
population comprised heads of selected households, and a semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect
information on socio-demographic characteristics, types of waste generated, waste management practices, and
attitudes towards solid waste management. The findings revealed that the major categories of waste generated
were food remains (41%), plastics (28%), and paper (20%). However, proper waste segregation and storage
practices were largely unsatisfactory, with the majority of households (60%) storing waste in polythene bags and
sacs, and only 36% practicing any form of waste separation. Crude dumping (32%) and burning (24%) were the
most common waste disposal methods, while organized collection by trucks was practiced by only 26% of
households. The study also found that women were primarily responsible for household waste management (59%),
and residents expressed concerns about the health and environmental impacts of poor solid waste practices,
particularly the presence of disease vectors and associated health risks. Nevertheless, the respondents generally
had a positive attitude towards improving waste management, with most acknowledging the importance of public
education and their role as community members in addressing the problem. The findings suggest that improving
household solid waste management in Ishaka Division requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the sociodemographic
factors, waste generation patterns, and the knowledge and attitudes of the residents.
Recommendations include strengthening waste collection and disposal infrastructure, promoting waste
segregation and recycling, and engaging the community through awareness campaigns and educational programs.
By implementing such measures, local authorities can work towards developing sustainable solid waste
management practices and mitigating the environmental and public health risks associated with poor waste
management in the division and similar urban settings in Uganda.
Keywords: Solid waste management, Household waste, Socio-demographic factors, Waste generation, Waste
disposal practices