Effective Waste Management in Urban Centres in South Sudan

Purpose: The objective of this study was to assess effective solid waste management in urban centres in South Sudan with special reference to Juba City Council. This included the types of solid waste generated, solid waste management practices and factors hindering effective solid waste management in relation to population growth and behavior. Methodology: The study used random sampling technique to determine a sample size of 200 respondents who were versed or partly versed with the subject in question. This included the Ministry of environment officials, City council waste management directorate, Members of parliament and the residents of Juba city council. Qualitative data was obtained from interviews using interview guides which were coded, interpreted. Further data was analyzed to give it a broader and more meaningful picture of the sample. Findings: The study findings revealed that paper and carton, yard trimmings, food, scraps, wood, glass, plastics, metal and clothes were the types of solid waste generated within the urban centres in South Sudan. The study further revealed that urban population growth significantly affects solid waste management in Juba city and poses the challenges of solid waste segregation since the waste is indiscriminately disposed of. In addition, insufficient funding led to inadequate provision of facilities and equipment for solid waste management coupled with inadequate enforcement of public health legislations and solid waste management by-laws. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study therefore recommended the use of integrated solid waste management, adequate resourcing, law enforcement and strengthening of the capacity of the Juba City/Municipal/urban councils’ policies and regulations.