Perception and Role of Community in Solid Waste Management at Khartoum State

The present study was initiated with the objective to explore household role in solid waste management and willingness to participate in practical solutions to reduce waste health hazards. The area of study was the state of Khartoum including the three main cities (Khartoum, Khartoum North and Omdurman) which encompassed 7 localities. Two localities were selected from each city according to their geographical location using the random method. A questionnaire was designed as to gain information about demographic information, socio-economic status, households’ solid waste management practices, solid waste collection and disposal etc. Statistical analysis that related per capital daily waste generation with household size and income as the only important factors influencing per capita solid waste generation was significant. The average calculated per capita generation rate of domestic solid waste as at 0.35 kg/capita/day for localities. Lifestyle was found to affect both solid waste amounts and characterization where plastic, papers, metal, and glass was correlated with high income families. Solid waste amounts and characterization were important in recovering recyclable materials as most showed interest in converting them into useful products. It could be concluded that since households are waste generators, and could also participate in waste management activities, they must be regarded as major stakeholders in solid waste management. They can play an active role in improving accountability and service quality of both public and private sector.