The Evaluation of Waste Management Practices of Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA)

This study critically evaluates the waste management practices of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) based on perceptions and experiences of 420 residents in Port Harcourt and its environs. Using a structured questionnaire, the research assessed household access to waste collection services, adequacy of infrastructure, frequency of collection, safety compliance, and equity in service delivery. Results show that 58.8% of respondents live in rented properties, 42.4% reside in single rooms, and 46.7% are students, highlighting a predominance of low-income, high-density households. A significant 71.9% use polyethylene bags for primary waste storage, while 65.9% believe RIWAMA provides insufficient waste receptacles. Additionally, 57.6% indicated that waste collection vehicles are inadequate, and 48.6% stated that RIWAMA does not adhere to proper collection timing. Although 60.5% agreed that waste is handled with adequate safety, concerns remain over irregular service delivery, inaccessibility of some areas, and lack of community engagement. The study concludes that RIWAMA’s efforts are hindered by infrastructural limitations, poor policy enforcement, and weak stakeholder collaboration. It recommends expanding waste collection logistics, enhancing public awareness, promoting community ownership, and adopting inclusive, data-driven strategies for improved environmental health and sustainable urban waste management.