Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards solid waste management in Central Division, Fort Portal Tourism City

Abstract

Background Solid wastes management is increasingly becoming a critical issue of concern in newly created cities in Uganda as it is greatly associated with increasing adverse environmental health problems that greatly impair health of humans, animals and causes economic losses. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards solid waste management in central division, fort portal tourism city, so as to generate information that would be used by stakeholders to educate the community on the proper solid waste disposal to safe guard against negative effects on human health and /or the environmental health. Methodology This was a descriptive cross-sectional study using both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The study utilized structured questionnaires to gather information from 164 participants who were residents in central division. Key-Informant guides was used to collect qualitative from 5 Key informants. Quantitative Data was analyzed using Stata E version 13 and presented in tables, using frequencies, proportions, and their 95% confidence intervals. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis and transcribed. Result: The majority of the participants were female 51.2% (84/164). Polythene or plastic bags were the most common type of solid waste generated 57.3 % (94/164), most of the wastes generators do not store their solid wastes 52.5% (86/164), and majority of them dispose them on the open ground 50% (82/164). Majority of the participants do not segregate the solid waste generated 67.7% (111/164). Majority of the participants reported that they face challenge of inadequate or lack of waste storage containers 40.2% (66/164), Majority of the study participant agreed that solid waste management is their responsibilities 46.3% (76/164) it is worthy to invest in solid waste management 43.9% (72/164), and that solid waste is associated with diseases so it should be managed well 34.1% (56/164). Conclusion: The study revealed poor practices, fair knowledge and good attitude toward solid wastes management though participants face challenges in translating their knowledge into required practices in solid wastes management. Recommendation: Increased commitment of relevant stake holders in sensitization of the mass and providing essential logistics required by the population for proper solid waste management can improve solid wastes management practices.