Private Sector Challenges in Sustainable Solid Waste Management, Dar es Salaam City, Tanzania

This qualitative study investigates the challenges and opportunities surrounding sustainable solid waste management (SWM) practices within Dar es Salaam City, Tanzania. Drawing upon participation theory, which emphasizes context, design, power, and scale fit, the study's primary objective is to analyze the challenges private entities face in effectively implementing sustainable SWM practices. In-depth interviews, focused group discussions and direct observation data collection methods were applied to collect data. The study used thematic data analysis to examine the research problem. The study findings revealed challenges like inefficiencies in decision-making processes, limited emphasis on sustainability, and poor contracts which do not pave the way to sustainable solid waste management practices. On the opportunity side, findings revealed that the private sector is willing to invest in modern technologies and establish links with other economic sectors, indicating potential paths for sustainable solid waste management. These findings contribute to the body of knowledge by highlighting the importance of inclusive decision-making processes and collaborative approaches in enhancing SWM practices. This study suggests that the Dar es Salaam Municipal Waste Management Department should establish a synergistic relationship between private-sector engagement and innovations in waste separation, reuse, recycling and recovery practices.